Over 100 killed, several missing as Cyclone Ditwah causes widespread damage in Sri Lanka
Relief work is in progress and about 44,000 people have been moved to government shelters after their homes were damaged or destroyed during a week of nonstop rain.
PTC News Desk: Cyclone Ditwah has caused heavy rains and floods in Sri Lanka, killing over 100 people so far, while 130 others are still missing, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said on Saturday.
Relief work is in progress and about 44,000 people have been moved to government shelters after their homes were damaged or destroyed during a week of nonstop rain.
The cyclone is now moving away from Sri Lanka toward India, but it has already caused major destruction, officials said. Armed forces are helping with rescue and relief efforts.
Although the cyclone hit land on Wednesday, the effects have been felt since Monday, bringing record rainfall. Flooding has worsened in low-lying areas. Authorities have ordered people living near the Kelani River to evacuate after the river overflowed on Friday night, forcing hundreds to seek shelter.
Rain has reduced in most areas, including Colombo, but some northern parts of the country are still receiving showers.
India has sent emergency supplies to help the affected people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and said India is ready to send more assistance if needed.
The Sri Lankan government has deployed the military with helicopters and boats to rescue stranded residents. Officials fear the flooding could be more severe than in 2016, when 71 people died. This is the worst weather disaster since June last year, and the deadliest floods since 2003, when 254 people lost their lives.