Cyclone Ditwah and its aftermath

SRI Lanka is experiencing one of its worst natural disasters in recent times.

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Cyclonic conditions over the country have wreaked havoc across the island, with the death toll surpassing 50 by Friday afternoon, many others reported missing, and thousands left homeless and destitute. Warnings of the cyclone were issued at least three days before its devastating effects began to be felt, and while the Government had advised people living in hilly areas and along riverbanks to be cautious, there was no clear indication of how serious the situation would become.

While the Government took steps to declare a holiday for State-sector employees and postpone the Advanced Level examination, questions will continue to be asked in the days and weeks ahead about the level of preparedness of the Government and the allied State institutions. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held several meetings and briefed the State sector responsible for disaster relief on how they should respond to the situation, while promising compensation for those affected, but monetary relief is not the immediate concern for many.