In December 2025, Cyclone Ditwah caused the death toll from floods and landslides in what country to rise to 618?

In December 2025, Sri Lanka tragically faced one of its most severe natural disasters in decades when Cyclone Ditwah caused widespread devastation. The powerful cyclonic storm made landfall in late November, bringing torrential rainfall that triggered extensive flooding and deadly landslides across all 25 districts of the island nation. This catastrophic event led to a significant loss of life and immense damage to infrastructure and livelihoods.

As the impact of Cyclone Ditwah unfolded throughout December 2025, the death toll from the floods and landslides tragically rose to 618. Beyond the fatalities, hundreds more were reported missing, and over two million people were affected, representing a substantial portion of the country's population. The disaster forced hundreds of thousands from their homes, with many seeking refuge in temporary shelters as their houses were destroyed or severely damaged.

The sheer scale of the destruction underscored Sri Lanka's vulnerability to extreme weather events. Cyclone Ditwah was described as one of the worst flood disasters in the country in two decades, and the deadliest weather-related disaster since the 2004 tsunami. Critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power networks, suffered extensive damage, disrupting essential services and complicating rescue and relief efforts. The central highland regions, known for their tea plantations, were particularly hard hit by landslides, contributing to the high number of casualties. The recovery efforts required substantial international aid, with the estimated direct physical damage reaching billions of U.S. dollars.