Colombo, November 28, 2025 — Sri Lanka is grappling with widespread devastation as relentless rains and extreme weather continue to lash multiple regions across the island, triggering floods, landslides, and large-scale displacement.
According to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), over 150,000 people across 15 districts have been directly affected, with more than 20,000 individuals currently in temporary shelters. The worst-hit areas include Galle, Matara, Kalutara, Ratnapura, Kegalle, Kandy, Gampola, Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, and parts of the Western and Sabaragamuwa Provinces.
In Galle and Matara, flash floods swept through low-lying villages, inundating homes and leaving entire communities cut off. In Kandy and Gampola, continuous rainfall has triggered several landslides and road closures, with residents urged to evacuate from high-risk zones. The Nuwara Eliya district has also reported extensive crop damage and blocked access routes, severely affecting livelihoods in plantation areas.
“We’ve never seen rain like this in decades,” said Priyantha, a farmer from Badulla, watching helplessly as his entire vegetable crop washed away.
“Everything’s gone. We just need help to survive the next few days.”
The Department of Meteorology has issued red alerts in several districts, warning of continued heavy rain and potential landslides in the central and southern regions over the next 48 hours.
Hospitals Overwhelmed, Supplies Dwindling
Medical centers in Kegalle, Ratnapura, and Kandy are stretched to the limit, with ongoing power outages, blocked access roads, and dwindling medical supplies making it increasingly difficult to respond to rising needs. Many displaced families — currently taking shelter in schools, temples, and community halls — lack access to clean water, warm food, and basic hygiene items.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly, but in several areas, operations are hampered by mudslides, fallen trees, and damaged bridges, especially in hilly terrain like Gampola and Nuwara Eliya.
This Is the Time to Act: Help Is Urgently Needed
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, public support is critical. Relief organizations are calling for immediate assistance — financial donations, dry rations, clothing, water bottles, medical supplies, and volunteer aid are all urgently needed.
“We cannot afford to wait. If you can help in any way — now is the time,” said a spokesperson from a leading disaster relief NGO.
“Sri Lankans are suffering. Let’s not let them suffer in silence.”
How You Can Help
Donate to trusted organizations such as the Sri Lanka Red Cross, Sarvodaya, Foundation of Goodness, and Manudam Mehewara
Drop off relief items at verified collection points in Colombo, Kandy, and other major cities
Volunteer with local coordination teams assisting with evacuation and relief
Share official updates and hotline numbers responsibly to spread awareness
Final Word
As floodwaters rise and landslides wreak havoc, what’s needed most right now is compassion in action. Whether it’s a donation, a shared message, or time spent helping — every act counts.
“Disasters don’t discriminate — and neither should our response. If this were your home, your family, your village — what would you hope others would do?”
Be that person. Be that help. Be that hope.
