A fierce cyclone, named Ditwah, has wreaked havoc across Sri Lanka, leading to devastating casualties and displacements. On 28 November 2024, the nation grapples with the aftermath of the storm, which has claimed 46 lives and left 23 people missing, as torrential rains and severe winds continue to pose risks.
Impact of Cyclone Ditwah
The eastern and central regions of Sri Lanka bore the brunt of the cyclone, with rainfall exceeding 300mm, triggering dangerous landslides. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reported that nearly 44,000 individuals have been evacuated—many taking refuge in schools and other public shelters.
- 46 confirmed deaths
- 23 individuals reported missing
- 43,991 people evacuated from their homes
- Significant landslides reported due to heavy rainfall
Emergency Response
Brigadier S Dharmawickrema, Emergency Operations Director at the DMC, noted the challenges in rescue operations due to blocked roads. Families trapped on rooftops and in precarious situations are being airlifted to safety by the military and police forces.
“We are doing our best to get everyone to safety,” he stated, as authorities work tirelessly to navigate the treacherous conditions.
Transportation and Infrastructure Challenges
The storm has also severely impacted transportation. Trading on the Colombo Stock Exchange was halted early, while schools remained closed and train services were suspended. The chaos extended to Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, leading to the diversion of 15 flights to alternative airports in India, including Trivandrum and Cochin.
International Aid and Future Risks
In a gesture of solidarity, India has provided 6.5 metric tons of food aid to support recovery efforts. As waters continue to rise, further flooding is anticipated, keeping the nation on high alert.
Local resident Mohammed Rumy, aged 70, expressed his concerns: “Strong winds are making the floods worse. We removed furniture from two nearby houses to a safer area,” he said as he prepared to seek shelter with his family.
As rescue efforts proceed, the DMC remains vigilant in monitoring the cyclone’s developments, ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected.