Cyclone Ditwah was the cause of heavy rains and floods that decimated Sri Lanka and the accompanying devastation. The meter from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has recorded 123 fatalities so far, while 130 more people are still unaccounted for. The calamity has caused more than 200,000 people from 61,000 families to suffer, among whom many have already been provided with shelters and aid.
The areas with the lowest elevation and those prone to flooding have been hardest hit, where the inhabitants are trying to cope with not only the rising water but also with the occurrence of landslides. Rescue and relief operations are still ongoing by the authorities, who also tell the residents to remain alert as the weather is improving, although there are still some risks in certain districts.
Cyclone Ditwah Worst-Hit Areas: Kandy and Badulla
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Worst-Hit Areas:
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Kandy district in Central Province reported over 50 deaths, with officials warning the toll could be higher.
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Badulla in the central hills experienced severe landslides, leaving 35+ dead and many missing.
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Flooding Worsens in Low-Lying Areas:
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Kelani River, flowing into the Indian Ocean from Colombo, burst its banks on Friday evening.
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Authorities issued evacuation orders for residents along the river.
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Hundreds of people were moved to temporary shelters for safety.
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Weather Update: Cyclone Moving To India
Cyclone Ditwah has weakened, and rains have ceased in most parts of the island where it caused devastation, including Colombo, the capital. The lingering effects of the storm are mostly felt in the north, which continues to receive light showers. Authorities have issued a red alert for areas expected to receive the heaviest rainfall, over 200 mm, before the storm moves out of the island on Saturday.
Although the cyclone has been losing strength, residents in affected districts are advised to remain cautious. The cyclone is currently moving toward a North Tamil Nadu–South Andhra Pradesh landfall, bringing the risk of extensive rainfall and strong winds in those regions.
Cyclone Ditwah: Landfall Expected In India- When And Where
- Expected Landfall: Between North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh
- Timing: Evening of November 29 to morning of November 30
- Affected States: Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh
- Impact: Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding
- Precaution: Residents in vulnerable areas should stay alert and follow local authority instructions
- Preparedness: Keep emergency kits ready and secure property
- Travel Advisory: Avoid non-essential travel during landfall period
Operation Sagar Bandhu: India Relief To Sri Lanka
India has decided to carry out Operation Sagar Bandhu as a fast route for help to Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah caused massive destruction. The Indian Navy took the initiative and shifted the relief materials via INS Vikrant and INS Udaigiri, while the Indian Air Force performed an airdrop of materials weighing 21 tons in total, besides over 80 NDRF personnel and 8 tons of essential equipment from Hindon Air Base.
These efforts have made it possible for the affected communities to receive essential rations, clean drinking water, medical supplies, and other critical items very quickly, because when disaster strikes, every minute counts!
The operation is not just about shipping supplies; it’s about hope, support, and a helping hand for those who have lost everything due to floods and landslides. The relief teams are working round the clock to make sure that the aid reaches the most needy. India’s neighbors can rest assured that we will be there to help them out in hard times!