The death toll in Sri Lanka from Cyclone Ditwah’s devastating floods and mudslides has climbed to 132, with 176 individuals still missing, according to local authorities.
The country’s disaster management center reported that nearly 78,000 residents have been displaced, now taking refuge in temporary shelters across the region.
The number of casualties is likely to increase as numerous areas affected by overnight mudslides remain inaccessible, as evidenced by social media posts from Saturday.
Sri Lanka has endured severe weather conditions since last week, which took a turn for the worse on Thursday. Torrential rains inundated homes, fields, and roads, causing landslides particularly in the central hill country known for its tea plantations.
In response, the government has shuttered schools and offices, while postponing scheduled exams.
Overflowing reservoirs and rivers have caused widespread roadblocks. Authorities have halted passenger train services and closed roads in several regions after routes became obstructed by fallen rocks, mud, and trees.
By Friday, water flowing downstream from severely affected areas began to inundate areas around the capital, Colombo, which experienced comparatively less rainfall.
Authorities say that Ditwah, which developed in the seas east of Sri Lanka, is likely to move toward India’s southern coast by Sunday.
Neighbouring India dispatched two search and rescue teams, comprising 80 rescuers, and sent aid to support ongoing operations, the country’s embassy in Colombo said Saturday.
