Sri Lanka is grappling with worsening impacts from Cyclone Ditwah, which has brought days of intense rainfall, deadly landslides and widespread disruption.
The storm has already caused severe flooding across more than a dozen districts, leaving at least 56 people killed, while 21 remain missing. Nearly 44,000 people from over 12,000 families have been affected, with homes destroyed and transport networks severely damaged.
Rainfall over the past 24 hours reached extreme levels, including 315 mm in Cheddikulam in Vavuniya and 305 mm in Alapalli in Mullaitivu, with several other districts reporting more than 200 mm.
Amid the intensifying effects of Cyclone Ditwah, Sri Lanka continues to face sustained rainfall that has led to fatal floods and landslides.
Authorities have said the death toll has risen to 56 and several remain missing, with some areas recording over 300 millimetres of rain, while authorities warn of more severe weather ahead.
Flights have been diverted from Bandaranaike Airport due to poor visibility, and all non-essential state offices and schools have been shut by the government while relief efforts continue.
The storm is expected to move north-northwestwards towards Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and southern Andhra Pradesh.