New Landslide Warnings in Sri Lanka as Cyclone Devastation Escalates

Post by : Mara Rahim

Authorities in Sri Lanka have issued new warnings for landslides as relentless rains persist in regions already devastated by a significant cyclone, pushing the confirmed death toll to 627. In the past fortnight, several tropical storms and monsoon downpours have swept through South and Southeast Asia, resulting in severe flooding, obstructing road access, and triggering landslides from Sumatra's jungles to the hilly areas of Sri Lanka. Across Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, the overall death toll from these natural catastrophes has reached at least 1,826, marking one of the region's gravest humanitarian crises in recent years.

In Sri Lanka, over two million individuals—approximately 10% of the country's population—have been impacted by the floods and landslides brought on by Cyclone Ditwah, the most formidable storm to affect the island in decades. The Disaster Management Centre has reported that ongoing monsoon rains are exacerbating conditions and destabilizing slopes in central and northwestern regions. On Sunday, helicopters and aircraft were dispatched to reach communities isolated by landslides, while the Sri Lanka Air Force confirmed the arrival of additional foreign relief supplies, including aid from Myanmar.

Of the confirmed fatalities, 471 occurred in the central tea-producing areas, with 190 individuals still unaccounted for. The number of people residing in temporary shelters has decreased from 225,000 to 90,000 as floodwaters recede slowly. Nevertheless, over 80,000 homes have suffered damage, with nearly 5,000 entirely destroyed, underscoring the extensive destruction. Officials have indicated that recovery will demand significant time and resources.

In Indonesia, the death toll has reached 921, with hundreds still missing. President Prabowo Subianto returned to the severely affected Aceh province on Sunday to oversee emergency response efforts. Despite protesters accusing officials of engaging in “disaster tourism,” the government asserted that the visit aimed to expedite aid distribution, facilitate the reopening of blocked roads, and assess evacuation measures. Long lines were reported for water and fuel in Banda Aceh, and the prices of basic necessities, such as eggs, have surged markedly. Although substantial damage has occurred, Indonesian authorities have yet to declare a national disaster, a move that would enable access to more resources.

Back in Sri Lanka, the government revealed a comprehensive financial support strategy on Friday to rebuild homes and restore businesses affected by the cyclone. Officials estimate that total recovery and rebuilding efforts could require as much as $7 billion. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has stated it is examining Sri Lanka's request for an additional $200 million in support for recovery operations, which would be distinct from the $347 million earmarked for release later this month under the country's four-year bailout agreement.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake informed parliament that while Sri Lanka's economy has improved since the 2022 crisis, it still lacks the robustness to cope with a disaster of this magnitude without international support. As continuous rain and unstable terrain persist, authorities maintain that the next few days are critical for rescue missions, distribution of relief, and long-term recovery efforts. The situation remains profoundly challenging for millions affected, and the government has prioritized the rebuilding of the nation as a matter of national importance.

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