By: Isuru Parakrama
December 10, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is grappling with one of its most widespread natural disasters in recent memory, with authorities confirming that fatalities linked to the relentless spell of severe weather have climbed to 410.
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC), issuing its latest update at 10 a.m. today (02), warned that the situation remains volatile as search efforts continue.
According to the DMC, 336 people are still unaccounted for, with rescue teams working in difficult terrain and often treacherous conditions. Entire communities have found themselves cut off as landslides and floods continue to disrupt access routes.
In total, the extreme weather has affected more than 1.46 million residents, comprising over 407,000 families across all 25 districts. Aid agencies say the scale of displacement is placing enormous strain on temporary shelters, many of which are struggling to provide adequate food, sanitation, and medical support.
Some districts have endured a far heavier toll than others. The hill country, in particular, has suffered grievously: Kandy has recorded the highest number of fatalities at 88, with Badulla and Nuwara Eliya reporting 83 and 75 deaths respectively. The north-western districts have not been spared either, with Kurunegala reporting 52 deaths and Puttalam confirming 27.
The list of those still missing reflects similar regional patterns. Kandy alone accounts for 150 missing persons, while Nuwara Eliya has 62, Kegalle has 48, Badulla has 28, and Kurunegala lists 27 individuals whose whereabouts remain unknown.
