Cyclone Ditwah has unleashed devastating floods and landslides across Sri Lanka, leaving at least 56 people dead and more than 21 missing. The island nation has been struggling with the aftermath of days of relentless rain and powerful winds that battered multiple districts. In response to the extreme weather conditions, the Sri Lankan government has declared Friday a public holiday, exempting only essential service workers.
The storm, which formed over the Bay of Bengal, continues to move rapidly toward the Indian coastline, prompting widespread alerts and precautionary measures in several southern states. The India Meteorological Department has warned of potentially severe conditions as the cyclone approaches landfall, expected on November 30.
Authorities in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala have issued advisories urging residents to stay indoors, avoid coastal zones and follow all disaster management instructions. Fishermen have been strictly warned against venturing into the sea as conditions are expected to worsen in the coming hours.
Emergency response teams across these states have been placed on standby, with shelters, relief centres and evacuation plans activated in vulnerable districts. Local administrations are coordinating with national agencies to ensure swift action in case of flooding or infrastructure damage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his condolences with Sri Lanka, expressing deep sorrow over the lives lost due to Cyclone Ditwah.
“My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families,” he wrote on X.
Underlining India’s commitment to supporting its neighbour in distress, the Prime Minister announced that Operation Sagar Bandhu has been launched to provide urgent relief materials and humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka.
“In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves,” he added.
With Cyclone Ditwah rapidly nearing the Indian coast, authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant:
Stay indoors unless absolutely necessary
Avoid beaches and low-lying coastal regions
Follow official weather and disaster management updates
Refrain from spreading unverified information
Fishermen must avoid entering the sea until further notice
As the storm advances, both Sri Lanka and India brace for continued heavy rainfall, strong winds and potential damage. Relief operations are underway, and authorities have emphasized the need for public cooperation to minimize risks in the coming days.
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