Sri Lanka is facing one of its most severe weather emergencies in recent years as deadly floods and landslides continue to sweep across the island. At least 56 people have lost their lives, and hundreds of homes have been damaged, prompting the government to close all public offices and schools as heavy rainfall intensifies.

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Extreme Weather Batters the Country for a Second Week

Severe monsoon conditions have affected Sri Lanka for more than a week, but the situation worsened dramatically on Thursday when relentless downpours flooded roads, destroyed homes, and triggered multiple landslides. The central highland districts of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya, known for their tea plantations, have been especially devastated.

More than 25 deaths were reported on Thursday alone in these two districts. According to Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre, at least 21 people remain missing and 14 have been injured. Landslides in other regions have also resulted in additional casualties.

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Daily Life Disrupted as Transportation and Infrastructure Collapse

With rains showing no signs of letting up, the government announced that all government offices and schools would remain closed on Friday. Officials warned residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

Most major reservoirs have overflowed, and rising river levels have submerged dozens of villages. Roads have become impassable due to flooding, mudslides, and fallen trees, while rocks and debris have cut off key transportation routes.

Passenger train services have been suspended in multiple regions after railway tracks were blocked or washed out. Several highways and rural roads remain closed due to dangerous conditions.

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Emergency Rescues Under Way

Emergency teams across Sri Lanka have been working nonstop to help stranded families. Television footage showed dramatic operations, including:

• An air force helicopter rescuing three people trapped on the roof of a house surrounded by floodwaters.
• Navy and police teams using boats to reach residents caught in rapidly rising waters.
• A disturbing scene in Ampara, where a vehicle was swept away by strong currents, resulting in three fatalities.

Local authorities say additional rescue teams are being deployed to high-risk zones as forecasts predict more rain.

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Widespread Damage to Homes and Livelihoods

More than 600 homes have been damaged across the country, and thousands of residents have been displaced. Farmland in multiple districts is underwater, raising concerns about crop losses and food supply in the coming months.

Disaster management officials warn that continued rain could trigger more landslides, especially in mountainous areas already saturated with water. Evacuation alerts have been sent to many hillside communities.

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Government Urges Caution as Rainfall Expected to Continue

Authorities are urging the public to follow official warnings, avoid flooded roads, and stay alert for landslide risks. The government has coordinated with the military, police, and local councils to expand relief efforts and temporary shelters.

Meteorologists say Sri Lanka may experience several more days of heavy rainfall, raising fears that the death toll and damage could increase.