Torrential rains triggered flash floods and landslides — over 600 homes damaged, roads and rail services disrupted, and rescue operations underway.
What Happened
- Heavy rains since last week caused rivers and reservoirs to overflow, flooding homes, farmland and roads across Sri Lanka.
- On Thursday, landslides struck in the central mountainous tea-growing regions, particularly in Badulla and Nuwara Eliya districts — at least 25 people died in those regions alone.
- As of Friday, official death toll reached 56 nationwide; dozens more are reported missing or injured.
Widespread Disruption & Damage
- Over 600 houses have been damaged across different parts of the country due to the floods and landslides.
- Many major roads and railway tracks are blocked or submerged — several passenger-train services have been suspended. Mud, rocks and fallen trees caused widespread disruption to transport.
- River and reservoir overflows led to waterlogging in multiple areas, making movement dangerous and hampering rescue efforts.
Rescue Efforts & Government Response
- The government ordered closure of all government offices and schools on Friday to ensure public safety amid worsening conditions.
- Rescue operations are ongoing: air force helicopters, navy and police boats are working to evacuate stranded residents. In one incident, people were rescued from a rooftop surrounded by floodwaters.
- Some trains and road traffic remain suspended until further notice, while authorities assess damage and monitor weather and water-level conditions.
Situation on the Ground
Sri Lanka’s mountainous terrain — especially in tea-growing zones such as Badulla and Nuwara Eliya — is especially prone to landslides when heavy rain hits. The combination of flooding + landslides + blocked infrastructure has made this disaster particularly devastating and made rescue/recovery operations complex.
Areas Most Impacted
- Residents in hilly and low-lying flood-prone zones: risk of landslides, water-logging, isolation due to blocked roads/railways.
- People living near rivers and reservoirs — risk of overflow and flash floods.
- Travellers and commuters — many roads/rails suspended; avoid non-essential travel until further notice.
- Everyone — advised to stay alert to weather and official warnings.
