December 14, Colombo (LNW): The number of fatalities linked to the recent spell of extreme weather has risen to 643, according to the latest update from the Disaster Management Centre.
Authorities also report that 184 people are still unaccounted for, as search and relief operations continue across affected regions.
Unusually intense rain, flooding and related hazards have impacted every one of the country’s 25 districts, disrupting lives on an unprecedented scale. The DMC estimates that more than 1.36 million people, representing over 391,000 families, have been directly affected by the crisis.
Emergency services and relief agencies remain engaged in rescue, recovery and assistance efforts, while officials warn that further challenges may arise as damaged infrastructure and displaced communities continue to be assessed.
