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SITUATION OVERVIEW
Emerging data confirms the growing scale of Cyclone Ditwah’s impact. Updated reports confirm 618 deaths and 209 people missing, and 2,078,436 people (583,030 families) affected nationwide.
Widespread destruction is reported across 22 districts, with the North-western and Western provinces among the hardest hit. The largest affected populations are in Gampaha (362,664) Puttalam (347,211), and Colombo (328,846). The highest number of reported deaths are in the central highland regions, particularly Kandy (232), Nuwara Eliya (89) and Badulla (83).
Shelter needs remain significant, and education services have been disrupted with schools damaged or used as shelters. A total of 75,192 houses have been partially or fully damaged, with 100,124 people from 29,874 families continuing to shelter in 990 government-run safety centres. This represents a reduction compared to a peak of approx. 233,000 persons in safety shelters on 2 December, as some have started to return home or seek alternative accommodations.
Northeast monsoon conditions are gradually establishing over the island, with rains forecast in several regions that could lead to renewed hazards as water levels remain elevated and the soil saturated.
Critical infrastructure has sustained severe damage. Only 30% of the national railway network is operational, while numerous bridges and roadways have been affected. Electricity supply was disrupted for 3.9 million consumers, although about 85% of connections have since been restored. Water supply to over 2.5 million people was disrupted due to damage to treatment facilities and distribution networks. About 50% of household connections have now been restored, with some of the water treatment facilities being brought back into operation. Public health risks remain elevated, including the threat of communicable diseases including vector borne diseases from stagnant waters, overcrowded shelters and disruptions to sanitation systems.