The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) says heavy rainfall has disrupted water supply in parts of the Kegalle District after water intake points supplying two treatment plants became blocked.

According to the NWSDB, the intake points serving the Asupini Ella and Mawanella water treatment plants have been obstructed due to the prevailing adverse weather, making it difficult to operate the facilities under normal conditions.

As a result, water supply to the Mawanella and Aranayake Divisional Secretariat areas has been completely suspended.

Meanwhile, consumers in areas from Mawanella to Karandana Junction and along the Mawanella–Rambukkana Road are experiencing a low-pressure water supply.

The NWSDB said work to clear the intake points and resume operations at the treatment plants will begin once weather conditions improve, with normal water supply expected to be restored as soon as possible. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Army personnel rescued residents stranded by floodwaters in Kotagala and the Blackwater area of Ginigathhena last afternoon as heavy rains continued to impact parts of the country.

Authorities continue to urge the public in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow official safety instructions. (Newswire)

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The Department of Irrigation has issued a Red‑level flood warning for the Kelani River Basin, valid until 1:30 pm tomorrow (04), cautioning of a possible major flood situation within the next 24 hours.

According to the Irrigation Department, significant, high‑intensity rainfall has been recorded in the upper and middle catchment areas of the basin, with forecasts predicting further heavy showers. 

Analysis of river gauge data indicates that water levels could rise rapidly, creating a high risk of flooding. The warning applies to low‑lying areas in the Divisional Secretariat Divisions of Dehiowita, Ruwanwella, and Yatiyanthota.

Residents in these regions, individuals using the river, and motorists traveling through the affected areas have been strongly advised to remain extremely cautious and highly vigilant. Disaster management authorities have been requested to take proactive measures to minimize risks. (Newswire)

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The Mahaweli Authority has announced that the spillway and sluice gates of the Kotmale Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir are being opened in sequence from 3:00 pm today to safeguard the reservoir and manage potential major flood conditions downstream.

It is reported that the move follows heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, with about 250 cubic feet of water per second expected to be released into the Kotmale Oya.

The Authority warned of flood risks in low‑lying areas downstream of the Kotmale Oya, including Nugawela, Riverside, and Mawathura, as well as along the Mahaweli River from Ulapane through Gampola, Waligalla, Gelioya, Peradeniya, Katugastota, and Polgolla.

Residents in these regions have been urged to remain highly vigilant and take necessary precautions as water levels rise. (Newswire)

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The Irrigation Department has extended the flood warning for the Kelani River Basin for another 48 hours, cautioning residents and motorists to remain on high alert.

The Amber‑level warning, issued this morning, will remain in effect until 11:30 am on Wednesday, August 5. 

The Irrigation Department states that continuous rainfall and rising water levels have heightened the risk of flooding in low‑lying areas.

The department urged residents and motorists in affected regions to exercise extreme caution and requested Disaster Management Authorities to take necessary measures to minimize risks. (Newswire)

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Traffic has been disrupted on several roads due to the heavy rains experienced in several parts of Sri Lanka today.

According to reports, traffic has been reported on the Colombo- Avissawella Road due to several areas being inundated as a result of heavy rains.

With heavy rainfall recorded in some areas of the Kelani River valley, flooding has been reported in certain areas from Avissawella to Hanwella, disrupting traffic.

Accordingly, the Colombo–Avissawella main road has been submerged at the Puwakpitiya Thummodara junction, the Seethawaka Botanical Garden, as well as some places in the Yatiyantota.

Vehicular movement has been disrupted on the Delgoda- Belumahara Road in the Udupila area due to flooding. 

The Gampaha Miriswatta road too has been obstructed for vehicle movement due to flooding.

Traffic has also been disrupted on the Divulapitiya–Mirigama road for light vehicle movement due to flooding in the Ullalapitiya area. (Newswire)

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The Irrigation Department has warned of a possible minor flood situation in low‑lying areas of the Kuda Ganga and Maguru Ganga, following considerable rainfall in upstream catchment areas of the Kuda Ganga sub‑basin of the Kalu River as of 8.00 a.m. today.

Hydrological station data from the Kalu Ganga indicate rising water levels, prompting concerns that roads running through floodplains in the Bulathsinhala, Madurawala, and Palinda Nuwara Divisional Secretariat divisions could be inundated.

Residents in these vulnerable areas, along with motorists using flood‑prone routes, have been urged to remain highly vigilant. 

Disaster Management Authorities have also been requested to take adequate precautionary measures to mitigate potential impacts. (Newswire)

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Train operations on the Puttalam railway line have been limited to Chilaw station after several sections of track near Thilladi were submerged by floodwaters, the Railway Department announced.

In a statement issued this afternoon, the department said adverse weather conditions had inundated multiple points along the line, forcing services to be curtailed. 

Rising water levels are expected to continue, prompting the suspension of trains beyond Chilaw for both today and tomorrow (May 14).

As a result, the Puttalam office train and all other scheduled services will operate only between Colombo Fort and Chilaw today, while tomorrow morning trains will commence journeys from Chilaw station.

The Railway Department added that updates on train operations between Chilaw and Puttalam will be provided depending on weather and track conditions. (Newswire)

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A new United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) assessment released on Wednesday reports that nearly all communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka suffered damage to homes, roads and other critical infrastructure.

The report further underscores the scale of recovery needs and the urgency of accessible financing for the most vulnerable.

The qualitative assessment, based on key informant interviews with 510 local officials, business leaders, and community representatives across 85 divisional secretariat divisions in the 22 most affected districts, found that 95% of respondents reported damage to residential, transport, industrial or community infrastructure within their area, with housing and roads most frequently cited.

Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka on 26 November 2025 and is the country’s deadliest disaster since the 2004 tsunami. An initial UNDP geospatial analysis released in December 2025 estimated that floodwaters inundated nearly 20% of the country’s land area, exposing approximately 2.3 million people. 

Building on this analysis, the qualitative assessment findings point to deep and widespread recovery needs, with many communities lacking the materials, labour, and financing required to rebuild.

“We commend the Government of Sri Lanka’s announcement on plans to provide LKR 95 billion in support to MSMEs, including a 3% concessional loan scheme, which is a crucial step in accelerating recovery. At the same time, it is essential that we prioritize support for the many that operate outside formal systems—those who often remain unseen yet form the backbone of the local economy,” said Azusa Kubota, UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka.

“The RAPIDA assessment underscores the importance of moving beyond short-term humanitarian assistance toward a comprehensive approach to early recovery and resilience-building. This is vital to ensure vulnerable populations do not fall back into poverty and get trapped in the cycle. Investing in recovery efforts that strengthen local economies—including targeted support for the informal sector—will be central to building disaster resilience and secure sustainable livelihoods for all.”

UNDP’s assessment highlights widespread economic fallout. A large majority of respondents (93%) reported that livelihoods had been affected in their area, citing crop and livestock losses, job losses and business closures, including in the informal sector, which employs a large share of Sri Lanka’s workforce. Key recovery needs include support for micro enterprises, access to low-interest loans and capital for small businesses to rebuild their infrastructure and stocks.

More than half of those interviewed reported that vulnerable groups, such as older people, persons with disabilities and female-headed households, were among those affected. The most common coping mechanisms included government aid or support (reported by 76% of respondents), followed by assistance from international organisations at 45%, and informal lending at 40%. These patterns point to rising household debt stress, with implications for both household welfare and the pace of recovery for micro and small enterprises.   

Respondents also identified shortages of construction materials, limited availability of skilled labour, and funding constraints as obstacles to rebuilding damaged infrastructure, while citing delays in approvals and weak coordination between institutions as slowing recovery efforts.

Environmental and health risks emerged as additional concerns, with local officials reporting water contamination, soil erosion, and damage to ecosystems, pointing to longer-term climate and public health impacts.

Sri Lanka, like other countries in South Asia, is increasingly exposed to extreme weather events linked to climate change, including floods, cyclones and prolonged droughts.

UNDP said the findings highlight the need for continued support to restore infrastructure and livelihoods, particularly for informal workers and small businesses, while strengthening the climate and disaster resilience of enterprises and industries as the country transitions from emergency relief to recovery and reconstruction. (Newswire)

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The Department of Irrigation says the Department of Meteorology has forecast heavy rainfall in river basins located within the Uva, Eastern, Central, North Central, and Northern Provinces.

The department says, as such, there is an increased risk of flooding in the river basins of the districts of Ampara, Batticaloa, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, Vavuniya, and Jaffna.

Accordingly, residents living in low-lying areas along river valleys and in close proximity to rivers within the said districts are advised to remain vigilant. (Newswire)

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Several roads in Galle were submerged due to the heavy rainfall experienced in the area today (06). 

It is reported that the Galle–Wakwella road near the Galle Police Station was inundated.

Meanwhile, the Galle Police stated that vehicular movement along the Galle–Wakwella road has also been disrupted.

It is further noted that rainfall continues in the Galle area. (Newswire)

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The Basnayake Nilame of the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya, Thilina Madushanka, has clarified his decision to sell part of the temple’s gold reserves, stating it was taken to safeguard the assets after recent floods and to support national projects.

Speaking to the media, while participating in an inspection tour of the Monaragala District General Hospital yesterday (Jan 05), he assured the public that any sale would be conducted transparently and at fair value with official approval.

“Some of the gold reserves at the Kataragama Devalaya were affected by the recent floods. If, for some reason, part of that gold was carried away by the floodwaters, who would be held responsible? That is why I made this decision. At this time, even the government is facing major difficulties. We expected to help the government with its other projects. This is not a deal with the government or with the President. There is no such thing. The President has not made any request of me, even in the slightest. This is simply to assist,” he said. 

Thilina Madushanka further assured that the gold would be sold properly and that it would be carried out with complete transparency. 

“I will take full responsibility for it. None of it will be sold at a low price. It will be sold at the correct market value. I will make announcements through social media. If it is sold, it will be done with the approval of the Commissioner of Buddhist Affairs, and it will be carried out with complete transparency. I have no intention whatsoever of committing fraud. If anyone claims that I am trying to take temple property for myself, that is false. For the past four years, I have not taken even the caretaker allowance or any benefit from the Vishnu Devalaya. I do not take anything from the Kataragama Devalaya either,” he added. (Newswire)

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Kandy Police say four youths have been arrested along with two high-powered motorcycles they are accused of stealing while the Kandy Court Complex was submerged during recent flooding. 

The motorcycles had been held as case evidence at the time of the theft.

According to the Lankadeepa newspaper, the theft had taken place when the Kandy Court Complex was flooded after the opening of the sluice gates of the Kotmale Reservoir on 27 November 2025. 

The Kandy Police said the suspects had loaded two motorcycles, one with a 1000cc engine and another with a 600cc engine, from the rear area of the court complex.

The suspects were arrested following a probe launched into a complaint that had been filed by the Kandy Court Registrar with regard to the theft. 

They were arrested from the Kandy, Getembe Kiribathkumbura, and Mawanella areas. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Fisheries announced on Tuesday (23 Dec) that the initial estimate of damage caused to the fisheries sector by the recent floods has exceeded Rs. 7,649 million. 

In response, Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources and Ocean Resources, Ramalingam Chandrasekar, unveiled a comprehensive recovery plan to provide immediate relief and long‑term support for rebuilding the industry.

Addressing a special media briefing alongside senior officials of the Ministry, the Minister explained the scale of destruction, stating that the aquaculture sector, a major foreign exchange earner, suffered the heaviest loss, estimated at Rs. 5,850 million, mainly affecting ornamental fish, shrimp, and sea crab industries. 

He further said that losses in the coastal fisheries sector were estimated at Rs. 1,799 million.

“Our nation has faced a massive natural disaster, yet the unwavering determination of our people, especially those in the fisheries sector, gives us hope,” Minister Chandrasekar said. “This government is committed not only to restoring what was lost but also to rebuilding the industry stronger and more advanced than before. It must be noted that the Ministry’s early warnings helped prevent a greater loss of life.”

Following discussions with the President, the following comprehensive recovery plan was announced:

Vessel Replacement and Repairs:

• For 13 multi‑day and one‑day vessels completely destroyed, in addition to insurance compensation, owners will be directed to low‑interest loan schemes introduced by the government, enabling them to build new vessels at their preferred locations.
• For all coastal vessels completely destroyed, insurance compensation will be directed to the C‑NOR institution, which will provide new vessels.
• All partially damaged vessels (coastal and inland) will be repaired free of charge by C‑NOR at their respective locations, funded by the government.

Support for Fishermen’s Gear:

• Coastal fishermen whose nets were destroyed (1,205 individuals) will receive vouchers worth up to Rs. 100,000.
• Inland fishermen (around 6,000 individuals) will receive assistance worth up to Rs. 75,000.

Assistance for Aquaculture:

• Small‑scale shrimp farmers will be provided free post‑larvae (PLs) for the first crop.
• Fish stocking in 699 affected tanks will be re‑established for up to two cycles.
• The National Aquaculture Development Authority of Sri Lanka will provide new broodstock to ornamental fish producers.

Financial Facilities:

• Medium and large‑scale enterprises engaged in export industries such as shrimp and ornamental fish (processing centres, ice factories) that suffered severe damage will be directed to low‑interest loan schemes through state banks for rebuilding.

Chairman of the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA), Kithsiri Dharmapriya, noted that this was the largest destruction to the inland fisheries industry since the tsunami. “The total damage to aquaculture alone is estimated at Rs. 5.85 billion. Of this, Rs. 3.4 billion was suffered by export‑oriented industries such as ornamental fish, shrimp, and sea crabs. The remaining Rs. 2.4 billion loss in the inland fisheries sector has had a direct impact on national food security,” he said.

Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Susantha Kahawatta, commenting on the extent of damage and response mechanism, said: “We are implementing a structured four‑stage process: damage mitigation, data collection and assessment, provision of short‑term relief, and execution of a long‑term rebuilding plan. Preliminary data show that in the coastal sector alone, more than 300 vessels were completely destroyed and over 400 partially damaged.”

Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa confirmed that a five‑member committee is already validating all damage assessment reports, and that aid distribution will be carried out transparently and swiftly. He further emphasized that the Ministry is fully committed to overcoming this crisis and building a stronger, more resilient fisheries sector for the future. (Newswire)

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New data from the Department of Agriculture, compiled with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), support, highlights the scale of flood impacts on agriculture across Sri Lanka. 

The maps show flood-affected areas of paddy, vegetables, and other field crops, with the most significant damage concentrated in several major agricultural districts.

These impacts threaten livelihoods, food production, and household food security, particularly for smallholder farmers. 

Issuing a statement, the FAO said it is working closely with national authorities and partners to assess damages, prioritize urgent needs, and support timely recovery and rehabilitation efforts. (Newswire)

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The Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has announced that it is currently gathering information on vehicles destroyed due to the recent disaster situation.

Commissioner General of the DMT, Kamal Amarasinghe, told the media today that from December 15 onwards, a special mobile service will be conducted at the district level to address this matter.

Based on the collected information, further action will be taken, and vehicles affected by the disaster will be inspected by the department to determine whether they are suitable for use or not, he added.

He further noted that, in addition to vehicles, some individuals’ documents have also been destroyed due to the disaster, and the department is collecting such information as well to proceed with necessary measures.

Accordingly, vehicle owners are advised to inform the Grama Niladhari of their division, who will then notify the Officer‑in‑Charge of the police station and file a police complaint. The Commissioner General emphasized that obtaining accurate reports from various agencies is essential for managing this situation.

Given the current circumstances, the DMT has received a large number of phone calls to its divisions, and therefore a special unit has been established to handle these inquiries, he said.

He further explained that information can also be provided via WhatsApp through the number 0707188866, and advised vehicle owners to preserve any available evidence of their vehicles or documents, as such evidence will be useful for future proceedings. (Newswire)

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Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya visited the Peradeniya University recently devastated by flooding triggered by Cyclone Ditwah. She inquired into the wellbeing of faculty, staff and students and met with recovery workers to observe ongoing efforts toward restoration.

The visit came after the university suffered massive damage from floodwaters that surged onto the campus on the night of November 27, submerging several faculties. 

At the time of the flooding a large number of students remained on campus; while the majority were safely evacuated. 

During her visit the Prime Minister stressed government support for restoration and resettlement efforts. She also spoke with students and faculty members, assuring them that all affected members of the university community would receive the necessary aid.

As floodwaters recede and cleanup begins, the full extent of damage to infrastructure and academic facilities remains under assessment. (Newswire)

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The World Health Organization (WHO) Sri Lanka has released public health guidance on how to safely manage dead animals found during or after flood events, in the wake of recent flooding across Sri Lanka.

The advisory highlights the risks posed by animal carcasses, which may result from drowning, illness, or injury during disasters.

The WHO urges the public not to touch, collect, or consume dead fish found after floods, and to seek instructions from Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) or local authorities before handling any dead animals. 

For those involved in cleanup efforts, the organization recommends wearing protective gear such as gloves, boots, and masks, and following strict hygiene practices, including thorough handwashing with soap and clean water.

To prevent contamination, food and water sources should be kept secure, and carcasses should be removed promptly. The WHO also advises using mosquito repellent when working outdoors in flood-affected areas.

This guidance is part of broader efforts to minimize health risks and support safe recovery in communities impacted by severe weather. (Newswire)

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The National Transport Commission (NTC) has taken disciplinary action regarding the Monaragala–Colombo bus that endangered passengers’ lives by attempting to cross floodwaters in the Kumbukkana area.

According to the NTC, the owner and staff of the bus were summoned before the National Transport Commission on Wednesday (03 Dec). 

Following the inquiry into their misconduct, the bus route permit has been suspended for two weeks.

In addition, the conductor and driver have been suspended from service for a period of one month. (Newswire)

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President of the BAR Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), Rajeev Amarasuriya, on Wednesday (03 Dec) visited the Kandy Courts Complex and the Kandy Lawyers’ Complex, which were affected due to the recent floods in Sri Lanka. 

Rajeev Amarasuriya said in a statement that he visited the court complex together with the President and Members of the Kandy Bar and the Convenor of the BASL Outstation Bar Committee and met with several Judicial Officers.

“It was deeply saddening to witness the extensive damage caused by the flooding to the Court Houses, the Lawyers’ Complex, and the Law Library, which has suffered significant loss,” he said. 

Rajeev Amarasuriya further said that the first donation of publications to begin the restocking of the Kandy Law Library, a small but meaningful first step in a long process of rebuilding, was handed over today.

“The BASL will continue to do everything within its capacity to support our Membership and institutions affected by this disaster, and I am encouraged by the strong momentum the initiative has already gathered,” he added. (Newswire)

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