Cyclone Ditwah's Devastation: Sri Lanka Faces Unprecedented Crisis with 355 Dead, Hundreds Missing
Sri Lanka grapples with the devastating aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, which struck the island nation last Friday, unleashing the worst floods in a decade and triggering deadly landslides. Official figures released Monday reveal a tragic death toll of 355, with 366 people still reported missing, as rescuers intensify efforts to clear debris-strewn roads and deliver crucial aid.
Widespread Impact and Humanitarian Response
More than half a million individuals have been severely impacted by the cyclone's fury, which brought powerful winds and torrential rains. The hilly central regions bore the brunt of deadly landslides, while the capital, Colombo, witnessed significant flooding. Residents along the Kelani river were seen salvaging what they could from submerged homes, painting a grim picture of the widespread destruction.
In the wake of the disaster, relief operations are paramount. While essential train and flight services have now resumed after initial disruptions, schools across the country remain closed as authorities assess the damage and ensure public safety. Weather officials have offered a glimmer of hope, stating that the storm is "very likely to move northwards, away from the island, and weaken further," suggesting the immediate meteorological threat is receding for Sri Lanka.
President Declares "Largest and Most Challenging" Disaster
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, addressing the nation on Sunday, described Cyclone Ditwah as an unprecedented challenge. He declared it the "largest and most challenging" natural disaster in Sri Lanka's history, noting it was the first time the entire country has been affected by such a severe event.
Regional Impact: India's Tamil Nadu Also Affected
The cyclone's reach extended beyond Sri Lanka's shores, bringing heavy rainfall to India's southern state of Tamil Nadu over the weekend. K.K.S.S.R. Ramachandran, Tamil Nadu's minister for disaster management, confirmed three rain-related fatalities in the state on Sunday. Located just 50 km off the coast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu's capital, the storm has since weakened into a "deep depression" and is projected to further dissipate within the next 12 hours, according to Indian weather officials.