Sri Lanka has been hit by its worst disaster since the 2004 tsunami. The country is struggling to recover after Cyclone Ditwah brushed the coast in late November, causing massive flooding and landslides. The storm hit during the north-east monsoon season, resulting in an increased volume of rain. The Kelani River burst its banks, resulting in increased flooding in low-lying areas and necessitating additional evacuations.
Sri Lanka’s president described it as the “most challenging” disaster in the island nation’s history. By Dec. 1, 355 people had died, and at least 360 were still missing. One million people have been affected (representing almost 320,000 families), at least 25,000 homes have been destroyed, and more than 200,000 people are staying in government-run shelters.
The Union of Catholic Asian News said, “More than 12,000 flood victims in Negombo have sought shelter in churches, mosques, and Buddhist temples.”
Photo: The Sri Lanka Navy rescue people affected by flooding in the Illuppukadavai and Settikulam areas of Mannar following heavy rainfall, Nov. 30, 2025. (Photo credit: Department of Government Information - Sri Lanka via Facebook)
