Sri Lanka Extreme Weather as Cyclone Ditwah Intensifies — Live Updates

The GCE Advanced Level examinations, including the General Information Technology (GIT) paper scheduled for December 6, have been postponed indefinitely, the Commissioner General of Examinations announced.

He said the new examination schedule will be released in due course.

Meanwhile, the reopening of schools has also been postponed until December 16 due to the ongoing adverse weather conditions, according to the Secretary to the Ministry of Education.  (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 05:35 PM

Cyclone Ditwah 6 PM Update : 69 deaths, 34 missing

69 deaths have been reported, while 34 individuals remain missing, following the adverse weather caused by cyclone ‘Ditwah’ the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said.

A total of 219,282 individuals from 61,175 families have been affected by the disaster situation caused by the cyclone.

266 safety shelters have been established across the country, accommodating 18,443 people from 5,890 families.

High-risk flood alerts have been issued for several major rivers, including the Kelani, Kalu rivers, Yan Oya, Mahaweli river, Deduru Oya, Maha Oya, Kala Oya, Attangalu Oya, Menik river, and Malwathu Oya.

Residents living downstream of these waterways have been advised to evacuate to safe areas immediately.

Meanwhile the Ambatale Reservoir has reached spill level, prompting authorities to warn Kolonnawa area residents also to evacuate due to the increased flood threat from both Ambatale and Kelani waterways.

The Department of Meteorology reports that many parts of the island are likely to receive over 200 mm of rainfall, which could further elevate flood risks in river basins including the Deduru Oya, Mahaweli river, Maha Oya, Mee Oya, Kalu, and Kelani rivers. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 05:35 PM

No cracks in Randenigala and Rantambe reservoir dams : DMC

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has dismissed claims of cracks in the Randenigala and Rantambe reservoir dams.

Issuing a clarification, the DMC said no such risk has been observed or reported, and urged the public not to be misled by false information.

The DMC also appealed to social media users to refrain from sharing unverified posts that could cause unnecessary panic during a time of crisis. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 05:33 PM

‘Cyclone Ditwah’ to move away from Sri Lanka on Saturday

‘Cyclone Ditwah’ is predicted to move away from Sri Lanka tomorrow (29), according to BBC Weather. 

Per the weather forecast, the cyclone is currently moving northwards away from Central Sri Lanka and towards India.

The weather advisory for Friday night to Saturday says Sri Lanka is to experience less rain and drier conditions on Saturday. (Newswire)

‘Cyclone Ditwah’ is predicted to move away from Sri Lanka tomorrow (29), according to BBC Weather.

Per the weather forecast, the cyclone is currently moving northwards away from Central Sri Lanka and towards India.

The weather advisory for Friday night to Saturday says Sri… pic.twitter.com/z97D4tFDMK

— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) November 28, 2025

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November 28, 2025 at 05: 23 PM

Extreme Weather : Nearly 100 deaths reported, more missing

Over 100 deaths have been reported in various districts due to the prevalent inclement weather conditions in Sri Lanka. 

The Badulla District Secretary says 35 people have died in the Badulla District alone due to the disaster. 

Meanwhile, the Kandy District Secretary says the death toll in the Kandy district alone has risen to 50, with another 67 missing. 

Five bodies have been recovered and 12 people are unaccounted for in the area of Yahangala in Hasalaka, Kandy, following a landslide.

Furthermore, the Police say 12 people are unaccounted for in the area of Dedugala in Bulathkohupitiya, Kegalle following a landslide. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 05: 17 PM

Severe weather cuts power to 25% of Sri Lanka

The General Manager of the Ceylon Electricity Board, Shirley Kumara, announced that approximately 25%–30% of the island’s electricity supply has been disrupted due to adverse weather conditions.

Speaking at a media briefing today (28), he said restoring power has become a difficult task, with the Eastern, Central, and Northern provinces most affected.

He said widespread outages continue, including in Peradeniya University and Kandy city, where substations have been submerged.

Kumara stressed that certain transmission lines have been deliberately switched off to prevent risks to public safety and equipment damage. Priority is being given to supplying electricity to essential services, with household connections addressed later.

He acknowledged that delays are inevitable, noting that around 7 million consumers are affected, and repairs can only proceed once water levels recede. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 0:52 PM

Telecom Services disrupted across Central Province due to disaster

Telecommunication services have been severely affected in parts of the Central Province after fiber optic lines were damaged by the prevailing disaster situation, the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission said.

Director General Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Bandula Herath told BBC that systems in Nuwara Eliya, Passara, Kadugannawa and Welimada have collapsed, with repair work currently underway. However, restoration in Nuwara Eliya remains challenging due to unsafe conditions.

Power outages affecting telecom towers have further delayed full recovery, as towers require electricity to function.

Meanwhile, telcos have decided not to disconnect postpaid connections exceeding limits and will provide support for prepaid users, offering up to 1GB free data, 250–300 SMS and up to Rs.300 credit during this emergency. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 0:48 PM

Dehiwala and Pinnawala Zoos closed on Nov. 29 due to bad weather

The National Zoological Gardens says the Dehiwala National Zoological Gardens and the Pinnawala Zoological Gardens will remain closed to the public due to the prevailing adverse weather conditions and the resulting fallen trees.

According to the National Zoological Gardens, the Dehiwala and Pinnawala Zoos will remain closed tomorrow (29).

However, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Ridiyagama Safari Park will continue to remain open to the public, it added. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 04:45 PM

Travel Advisory : Important notice for BIA passengers

The Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Private Limited (AASL) says several airport access roads have been affected by flooding due to the prevailing adverse weather conditions across the country.

Issuing a statement, AASL said passengers are advised to use the Colombo – Katunayake Expressway to ensure a smoother and safer journey to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). 

Additionally, to help reduce congestion within the airport premises during this period, passengers are requested not to bring visitors to the terminal, it added. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 04.41 PM

Sajith pledges maximum support for Govt’s relief efforts  

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says the government must expedite efforts in relation to those affected due to inclement weather, stating that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) will do the maximum possible to alleviate the hardship and suffering of the people. 

“The need of the hour is action. Lives need to be saved. Essential items such as food, water, sanitary facilities, and safe places must be provided. Looking after the health of the people is most important. Special attention needs to be given to look after vulnerable groups such as children, mothers, women, youth, the elderly, and the disabled. Time for the government to expedite. @sjbsrilanka will do the maximum possible to alleviate the hardship and suffering of the people,” he said in a post on ‘X’. 

Meanwhile, addressing the Parliament today, Premadasa stated that an immediate program must be prepared to rescue those affected due to adverse weather from this situation and that everyone should come together for this program and that full support will be extended to save the people from this crisis.

Premadasa further stated that if it is possible to allocate larger sums of money to the relevant institutions, it would be appropriate to do so, and requested that such funds be released as quickly as possible.

If additional funds are required to provide relief to those affected by disasters, and if the government presents a supplementary estimate for this purpose, the opposition is ready to extend its support, he added. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 04:22 PM

Special flood warning for Gampaha town & surrounding areas

The Irrigation Department has issued a Red Flood Warning for the Attanagalu Oya Basin, warning that a major flood situation may occur in low-lying areas within the next six hours due to heavy rainfall in the catchment.

According to the Hydrology and Disaster Management Division, intense rainfall is currently being experienced in several parts of the basin, and analysis of river water levels recorded at gauging stations indicates a high risk of flooding in the Attanagalu Oya and Uruwal Oya valleys.

The warning highlights that Gampaha town and surrounding areas are particularly at risk, with the possibility of rapid water level rises leading to inundation of low-lying zones.

Residents living in vulnerable areas, as well as drivers and passengers travelling through these regions, have been urged to exercise extreme caution to protect lives and property. Disaster Management authorities have also been requested to take all necessary measures to ensure public safety and preparedness.

The Flood Warning Message No. 05 is valid until 3.00 PM on 30 November 2025. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 04:07 PM

AASL urges passengers to check flight status amid adverse weather

The Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Private Limited (AASL) has advised all passengers to stay updated on their flight schedules and follow official guidance, due to the prevailing adverse weather conditions across Sri Lanka. 

Issuing a statement, AASL said passengers are advised to check the latest flight status via the following methods;

• Official website www.airport.lk. 
• Arrival Flight Status: www.airport.lk/flight_info/arrival 
• Departure Flight Status: www.airport.lk/flight_info/departure 

SriLankan Airlines passengers have been requested to call 1979 (within Sri Lanka) or +94117771979 (international) to check Sri Lankan Airlines flight status.

“We urge the public to remain calm and informed, as we maintain continuous, round-the-clock coordination with all partners to ensure safe operation continuity,” AASL added. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 04:04 PM

Deputy Transport Minister visits Peradeniya Uni to assess student safety

Minister Bimal Ratnayake says Deputy Transport Minister Prasanna Gunasena visited the University of Peradeniya today to check on students affected by the flooding. 

He confirmed that the students are safe, but communication remains difficult due to disruptions to phone networks and electricity. 

The minister added that authorities are working to re-establish coordination with the campus. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 03:11 PM

47 Police Division Hotlines Activated for Emergency Assistance

Sri Lanka Police says Special Operation Centres are now active in all Police Divisions to provide support during floods, landslides and extreme weather.

If you need urgent help, contact any of the 47 Police Division hotlines listed below ;

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November 28, 2025 at 02:46 PM

Govt, Opposition join in disaster response

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says Government and Opposition representatives must work together effectively in this challenging situation to safeguard the lives of affected citizens and provide them with the necessary relief.

The President made these remarks during a discussion held this morning (28) at the Tri-Forces Headquarters with Government and Opposition representatives, to review the next steps required in response to the emergency disaster situation that has arisen in the country due to adverse weather conditions.

Opposition MPs proposed that emergency law be enforced if necessary to ensure effective rescue and relief operations, and expressed their full support for such measures.

President Dissanayake emphasized that there will be no financial obstacles in providing relief to affected people. Disaster Management District Committees have already been convened, and District Secretaries have been allocated funds to spend as required. He further noted that no circulars will hinder the use of these funds, and in cases where obstacles arise, District Coordinating Committees have been authorized to approve expenditures.

The President also stated that helicopters will be deployed to rescue people stranded in areas inaccessible to relief teams. He added that the Indian High Commission has already agreed to provide helicopter facilities if required for rescue operations.

He assured that continuous relief services, including dry rations and health facilities, are being provided to people in safe camps, those remaining in their homes, and those displaced to other locations. He instructed representatives to immediately inform the Disaster Management Center if there are areas in their districts where relief services have not yet reached.

The President further said that programs are already being planned to address the growing risks in the Western Province.

Representatives also briefed the President on the current situation and needs in their respective districts. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 02:40 PM

Special weather alert : Issued at 02:00 PM

The Cyclonic Storm “Ditwah” was centered near latitude 8.4°N and longitude 81.0°E, about 30 km Southwest of Trincomalee at 11.30 am today (28) and is very likely to move north-northwestwards, according to the Department of Meteorology.

As such, cloudy skies can be expected over most parts of the island. Intermittent showers and thundershowers will occur over Northern, North-central, Central and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee district and very heavy falls above 200 mm are likely at some places.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Sabaragamuwa and Western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts. Very heavy falls above 150 mm are likely at some places in the Sabaragamuwa and Western provinces. Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the other areas of the island.

Very strong winds at times about 60-70 kmph and gusting up to 80-90 kmph can be expected over the most parts of the island.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by heavy showers and strong winds. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 02:13 PM

Three from same family killed in Nawalapitiya landslide

A landslide occurred today (28) at the old railway yard road in Nawalapitiya, collapsing onto a house and claiming the lives of three members of the same family.

According to Nawalapitiya Police, the deceased are a woman, her mother-in-law, and a three‑month‑old infant.

It was reported that heavy rainfall in the Nawalapitiya area triggered the landslide onto the house. Despite extensive rescue efforts by local residents together with Nawalapitiya Police officers, they were unable to save the victims.

The bodies of the deceased have been placed at the Nawalapitiya District General Hospital. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 01.54 PM

Critical warning: Kelani Valley faces flood threat never seen in history

The Irrigation Department warns that from now and over the next 24 hours, a high-risk flood situation, at levels not experienced in recent history, may occur in low-lying areas of the Kelani Valley due to heavy rainfall and increased reservoir discharge.

According to the Department, based on the prevailing rainfall conditions, the volume of water being discharged from reservoirs located in the upper catchment of the Kelani River, and the analysis of river water levels recorded by river gauging stations maintained by the Irrigation Department within the Kelani River Basin, it is hereby warned that from this moment and during the next 24 hours, a High-Risk Flood Situation, of a level not experienced in recent history, may occur in the low-lying areas of the Kelani River Valley. 

The public residing in these areas are strongly requested to act with extreme caution in order to safeguard their lives, and to proceed as quickly as possible to the safest locations available to them. The Disaster Management authorities are hereby requested to treat this matter with utmost priority and to take all necessary actions accordingly. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 01:35 PM

Cyclone Ditwah disrupts BIA operations : 15 flights diverted 

The Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Private Limited (AASL) has assured the public that it is taking all necessary, proactive steps to manage and mitigate the impact of the severe storm conditions, including Cyclone Ditwah, on operations at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

The AASL said since 22:55 hrs yesterday (27), a total of 15 inbound aircraft have been safely diverted to alternative international airports, including Mattala (MRIA), Trivandrum, and Cochin, due to unsafe landing conditions at BIA.

Issuing a statement, the AASL said that it has also registered 16 flight delays at BIA.

The AASL further said that Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) is being kept on a state of high alert and is fully prepared to accommodate any further diversions, having already handled up to six diverted flights. 

The AASL added that one scheduled flight from Jaffna International Airport has been cancelled in consideration of prevailing weather risks.

“We strongly urge all individuals scheduled to travel to or BIA today and tomorrow to contact their respective airlines immediately for the most current and specific flight status information before traveling to the airport,” it added. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 01:24 PM

Flood warnings extended for Gal Oya and Mee Oya Basins

The Department of Irrigation has extended the flood warnings issued to the Gal Oya Basin and the Mee Oya Basin due to heavy rainfall experienced in the areas.

Accordingly, the flood warning issued for the Gal Oya Basin yesterday has been extended for a further 48 hours. Therefore, residents living in the affected areas are requested to remain highly alert and take necessary measures to ensure their safety in the event of possible flood conditions. 

Furthermore, the flood warning issued for the Mee Oya Basin yesterday has been extended for a further 48 hours. Therefore, residents living in the affected areas are kindly requested to remain highly alert and take necessary measures to ensure their safety in the event of possible flood conditions. 

The relevant disaster management authorities are requested to take the necessary actions accordingly. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 01:14 PM

President issues new Circular to speed up Disaster Relief 

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed District Secretaries and Chairpersons of District Development Committees to carry out rescue and relief operations without allowing financial constraints to delay assistance to affected communities.

During a special virtual meeting held this morning (28) via Zoom with District Secretaries and Chairpersons of District Coordination Committees, the President said Rs. 1.2 billion has already been released for disaster relief and a further Rs. 30 billion has been allocated under the 2025 Budget for emergency response, urging officials to act immediately and seek additional funds where necessary.

To avoid administrative delays caused by existing circular restrictions, President Dissanayake directed the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration to issue a new circular with immediate effect. 

District and Divisional Secretaries were instructed to utilise available funds for urgent relief efforts and to promptly report further requirements, including boats, helicopters, vehicles and specialised equipment needed for rescue operations. 

The President also announced the establishment of a dedicated Coordination Unit at the Defence Headquarters, alongside the introduction of ten special hotline numbers to strengthen emergency communication. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 01:08 PM

Extreme weather : Traffic restricted on Southern Expressway 

The Ministry of Transport says the Kaduwela Exit of the Southern Expressway for vehicles coming from Kadawatha is inundated.

The ministry said that motorists are urged to use alternative routes. 

Meanwhile, the Road Development Authority says traffic on the Southern Expressway has been restricted to one lane due to an unsafe situation.

As such, traffic on the Southern Expressway will be restricted to one lane from Kahathuduwa towards Colombo. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 12:58 PM

Sri Lanka briefs diplomats on emergency flood-relief and recovery efforts

A diplomatic briefing under the aegis of Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya was held at the Prime Minister’s Office today to brief Colombo-based Heads of Mission on the Government’s ongoing emergency flood-relief operations and recovery efforts. 

According to the Foreign Ministry, all Heads of Mission and Posts of Sri Lanka’s Diplomatic Missions abroad join the meeting virtually. 

The briefing focused on ensuring the safety and security of the affected communities and outlined the immediate and aftermath recovery measures. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established an Emergency Response Unit for overall coordination effectively with Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions abroad and Colombo-based diplomatic missions. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 12:53 Pm

Worse flood than 2016 : Colombo, Kelaniya residents warned

Director General of the Department of Irrigation, Ajith Gunasekara, has warned that ongoing rainfall could lead to flooding from the Kelani River worse than what was experienced in 2016.

Based on current water levels recorded at Avissawella, he said Colombo is likely to face a significantly higher volume of floodwater by tomorrow night.

“It is unlikely this situation will change. We expect the Kelani River’s water levels to exceed those recorded during the 2016 floods,” Gunasekara said during a special media briefing on the response to the current disaster situation.

He urged residents in vulnerable areas, particularly in Colombo, to take precautionary measures by securing essential documents such as educational certificates, vehicle records, and other valuables which can be removed. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 12:38 PM

Traffic disruptions reported on Colombo Roads

Traffic disruptions have been reported on several roads in Colombo due to the adverse weather conditions experienced in Sri Lanka.

According to the Police, traffic disruptions have occurred due to flooding and tree falls. 

As such, the affected roads are;

• Premasiri Kemadas Mawatha near the Lionel Wendt Theatre and Kepitipola Mawatha
• Near Entrance 04 of the Colombo National Hospital
• Elvitigala Mawatha
• Queens Road Junction
• Armour Street Junction 

Motorists have been requested to use alternative routes. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 12:01 PM

Sri Lanka seeks support from Indian warship docked in Colombo

Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, said assistance has been requested from the Indian warship currently docked in Colombo, including the use of its aircraft for ongoing rescue and relief operations amid severe weather conditions, posed by Cyclonic Storm “Ditwah”

A formal request was made to the Indian High Commission in Colombo, he said during a special media briefing.

However, Thuyacontha noted that adverse weather is also affecting the Indian aircraft and flight operations may be limited due to current conditions.

“Due to the prevailing adverse weather, even the Indian pilots are currently unable to operate,” he said.

He further said that a special meeting with foreign envoys based in Sri Lanka has been scheduled for this evening, during which the government plans to brief them on the current situation and the support required for continued disaster response efforts. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 11:50 AM

6 SriLankan Airlines flights diverted : Update

SriLankan Airlines flights UL218 and UL226 are diverted to Trivandrum, UL254 to Cochin, and UL230,UL192 and UL266 to Mattala due to adverse weather.

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November 28, 2025 at 11:45 AM

U.S. Embassy issues alert over cyclonic storm ‘Ditwah’

The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka has issued a weather alert warning U.S. citizens of potential risks posed by Cyclonic Storm “Ditwah,” currently located approximately 50 km south of Trincomalee.

The embassy advised U.S. government personnel in Sri Lanka to exercise caution, limit non-essential travel, and monitor local weather updates. It also urged the general public to follow instructions from the Department of Meteorology and local authorities, and to prepare emergency supplies.

Despite the weather conditions, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo remains open. Any operational changes or updates to consular services will be communicated as necessary.

For assistance, the U.S. Embassy can be contacted via +94-11-249-8500 or ColomboACS@state.gov. Travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates.

According to the alert issued on November 28, the storm is moving in a north-northwestward direction and is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall and strong winds across the island.

Provinces likely to experience very heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm include Northern, North-central, Central, North-western, Sabaragamuwa, and Western. Rainfall above 150 mm is forecast in Trincomalee, Badulla, Galle, and Matara districts, while other areas may see over 75 mm. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 11:09 AM

Navy evacuates 37 persons trapped due to landslide 

The Sri Lanka Navy has evacuated 37 persons who were trapped by a landslide in the Unuwinna area of Maoya-Kosgalanda, Hanguranketha, yesterday (27). 

According to the Navy, the collapse of an earth mound had blocked the only road to the Unuwinna Village in Maoya, stranding 17 families. 

The Navy relief team, assisted by local residents, safely guided all the individuals, including 18 children, to secure locations. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 10:36 AM

Air Force rescues man trapped on coconut tree (Video)

A group of persons who had been trapped following flooding in Anuradhapura and in Polonnaruwa have been rescued by the Sri Lanka Air Force. 

One person who had been trapped on a coconut tree since yesterday (27), following flooding caused by the overflow of the Kalawewa in Anuradhapura, and six persons stranded this morning (28) on the Manampitiya bridge in Polonnaruwa, were safely rescued by a Bell‑212 helicopter.

According to the Air Force, the helicopter used belongs to the No. 7 Helicopter Squadron of the Sri Lanka Air Force base at Hingurakgoda.

The rescued persons have been transferred to safe locations. (Newswire)

Man trapped on a coconut tree since yesterday due to rising floodwaters from the Kala Wewa in Anuradhapura was safely rescued this morning by the Sri Lanka Air Force using a Bell-212 helicopter pic.twitter.com/guA6lNXENR

— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) November 28, 2025

 

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November 28, 2025 at 10:33 AM

Rs. 1.2B allocated for disaster relief; Rs. 30B set aside for emergencies

A sum of Rs. 1.2 billion has already been allocated for disaster relief services in Sri Lanka, the Government Information Department said. 

According to the Director General of the Department, H.S.K.J. Bandara, in addition, Rs. 30 billion has been set aside in the 2025 budget for emergency requirements.

During an online discussion held with all District Secretaries, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has informed them to request funds as needed.

The President has further instructed all parties to carry out disaster relief activities efficiently and without any hindrance. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 10:08 AM

Road closure on the Colombo-Kandy main road

The Colombo-Kandy main road between the 88 and 89 km posts in Meepitiya in Kegalle has been temporarily closed.

According to the DMC, the road closure is due to the risk of landslides as a result of the prevalent inclement weather conditions. 

The DMC requests drivers to use alternative roads. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 10:00 AM

Kalu River Basin : Flood warnings issued to Ratnapura and Kalutara Districts

The Irrigation Department has warned of a major flood risk within the next few hours in low-lying areas of the Kalu River Basin due to heavy rainfall and rising water levels.

According to the department, areas at risk include;

• Ratnapura District: Pelmadulla, Nivithigala, Ratnapura, Kuruwita, Ayagama, Elapatha
• Kalutara District: Kalutara, Ingiriya, Horana, Dodangoda, Millaniya, Bulathsinhala, Palindanuwara, Madurawala, Agalawatta

Residents and road users in these areas are urged to remain highly vigilant, move to safer locations if necessary, and follow instructions issued by authorities. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 09:55 AM

Highest rainfall in 24 hours reported in Matale

The highest rainfall in the last 24 hours, ending at 06.00 am today, has been reported in the Gammaduwa area in Matale, with 540.60 mm.

According to the Disaster Management Centre, between 403 mm and 442 mm of rainfall has been recorded in the Alkaduwa and Kandenuwara areas in the Matale District, Kotmale area in the Nuwara Eliya District, Dotheloya Estate in the Kegalle District, and in the Nillambe and Marassana areas in the Kandy District. 

Between 300 mm and 399 mm of rainfall has been recorded in some areas in the Matale, Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy Districts. 

The DMC reports that between 231 mm and 295 mm of rainfall has been recorded in some areas of the Kandy, Badulla, Kegalle, Nuwara Eliya, and Kurunegala districts. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 09:23 AM

Cyclonic Storm Ditwah in SL : 8.00 am Update

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November 28, 2025 at 09:14 AM

SriLankan Airlines urges passengers to check flight status

SriLankan Airlines has advised passengers booked to travel today (28) to check the latest flight status before proceeding to the Katunayake Airport. 

Flight status can be checked via www.srilankan.com or via the hotline 1979 (within Sri Lanka) or +94117 771979 (international).

Meanwhile, it is reported that the Katunayake Airport is experiencing delays in both arriving and departing flights due to adverse weather in Sri Lanka. 

According to the Airport Duty Manager, several aircraft have been diverted to Kochi, Trivandrum, and Mattala. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 09:10 AM

Landslide warning to 13 districts extended until tomorrow

The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) has extended the landslide warnings issued to 13 districts, effective until 02.00 am tomorrow. 

According to the NBRO, red alerts have been issued to several areas in the Badulla, Kandy, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Matale, Monaragala, and Nuwara Eliya districts.

Meanwhile, amber alerts have been issued to some areas in the Badulla, Colombo, Galle, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Monaragala, and Ratnapura districts. 

Yellow alerts have been issued to areas in the Gampaha, Hambantota, Matara, and Ratnapura districts. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 7:48 AM

All train services suspended

The Railway Department has suspended all train services on every route from 6 a.m. today (Nov. 28), due to the ongoing extreme weather conditions across the country.

Additional General Manager (Operations) Chandrasena Bandara said the decision was made as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety, with continuous heavy rain increasing the risk of landslides, flooding, and fallen trees along multiple railway lines. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 6:38 AM

RED ALERT : Flood Warning for Kelani River Basin

A Red Level Flood Warning has been issued for the low-lying areas of the Kelani River valley within the next 48 hours due to heavy rainfall and increased water release from upper catchment reservoirs, the Irrigation Department said.

Areas at risk include Eheliyagoda, Norwood, Yatiyantota, Galigamuwa, Ruwanwella, Bulathkohupitiya, Dehiowita, Seethawaka, Dompe, Padukka, Homagama, Kaduwela, Biyagama, Kolonnawa, Kelaniya, Wattala and Colombo.

Residents in these areas are urged to remain highly vigilant, take necessary precautions, and prioritise safety. Motorists and commuters are also advised to exercise extreme caution when travelling through affected areas. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 6:29 AM

Extreme Weather : 56 deaths, 21 missing

A total of 43,991 individuals from 12,313 families have been affected by the extreme weather conditions caused by Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said.

According to the latest update, 56 people have died, 14 have been injured, and 21 remain missing due to incidents related to the adverse weather.

The DMC also reported four houses fully destroyed and 666 partially damaged across affected districts. (Newswire)

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November 28, 2025 at 2:30 AM

Cyclonic Storm Ditwah in SL : 2.00 am Update

 

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Heavy Wind and Rain Sweep Across Colombo

 

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Extreme weather : Hotlines introduced to report disasters in Colombo

The government has introduced hotlines for reporting emergency disaster situations arising in the Colombo District due to the prevalent adverse weather conditions.

A set of emergency contact numbers was introduced to the public of the Colombo District for the immediate reporting of urgent situations.

Accordingly, the 24-hour official emergency hotline 117, the Colombo District Disaster Management Coordinating Unit at 0112434028, and the Disaster Management Coordinating Unit at 0112136136 were announced.

 

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Notice for all tourists

Sri Lanka remains safe and fully open for travel and tourism despite seasonal rainfall affecting certain parts of the country, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) said in a media release issued today.

The SLTDA assured international visitors that major tourist destinations across the island continue to operate as normal, with hotels, transport services and tourist attractions functioning without disruption. Authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions and have implemented comprehensive safety measures in coordination with tourism partners and relevant state agencies to ensure the safety and comfort of travelers.

Tourists have been encouraged to rely on official weather updates to plan their journeys with confidence. The SLTDA also highlighted that the Sri Lanka Tourism Hotline – 1912 – remains active 24 hours a day to assist visitors affected by prevailing weather conditions, working in coordination with the Tourist Police, Disaster Management Centre and other authorities island-wide.

Reaffirming its commitment to the tourism sector, the SLTDA said Sri Lanka continues to welcome travelers to experience its beaches, cultural heritage, wildlife and renowned hospitality. (Newswire)

 

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November 27, 2025  6.00 PM

Extreme weather : 30 deaths in two days

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has reported that 30 deaths occurred over the two days of November 26 and 27 as a result of the adverse weather conditions affecting Sri Lanka.

According to the DMC, 19 of the deaths were reported in the Badulla District, 01 each in the Kurunegala and Galle Districts, 04 in the Nuwara Eliya District, and 05 in the Ampara District.

The deaths have occurred due to landslides, flooding, and other weather-related disasters reported in the said areas.

Meanwhile, a total of 40 disaster-related deaths have been reported across Sri Lanka due to the adverse weather conditions experienced between November 16-27.

Twenty-one (21) persons are reported missing, while 10 have sustained injuries during this period.

A total of 5893 individuals from 1729 families in 20 districts have been severely affected due to inclement weather in Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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