Sri Lanka struck by deadly floods and Landslides, 31 killed

Sri Lanka is facing one of its most severe weather emergencies in recent years, as torrential rains, floods and landslides have claimed 31 lives over the past 11 days and displaced nearly 4,000 people across the island nation. Authorities are on high alert as conditions continue to worsen.

The Disaster Management Centre confirmed that 18 of the deaths occurred in the central hill districts, where intense rainfall triggered multiple landslides. Rescue operations are ongoing in several affected regions.

A frightening incident unfolded in Kumbukkana, where a passenger bus was caught in rising floodwaters. Emergency teams managed a successful rescue, saving 23 passengers. However, nearly 10 people have been injured, and 14 individuals are still missing, according to the report.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake convened an urgent crisis meeting to assess the deteriorating conditions across 17 of Sri Lanka’s 25 administrative districts. Officials are being mobilised to coordinate relief efforts and evacuations where necessary.

The weather bureau reported that a low-pressure system on the island’s southeast periphery has intensified into a depression, currently located around 210 km southeast of Batticaloa.

Experts warn that it is likely to intensify into a deep depression within 12 hours, moving northwest and worsening the situation further.

Forecasts indicate very heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm in several areas, raising concerns of more flooding and landslides. Authorities have urged residents to stay alert, follow evacuation advisories and avoid risky travel.

Sri Lanka stands at a critical moment counting casualties, searching for the missing and bracing for even more severe weather ahead.