Parts of Wattala in Sri Lanka’s Western Province continue to remain inundated following persistent heavy rainfall brought by the influence of Cyclone Ditwah, which has significantly disrupted normal life across several coastal and urban areas. The continuous downpour, which intensified overnight, resulted in widespread waterlogging in low-lying residential neighborhoods, major roadways, and commercial zones, forcing authorities to activate emergency response mechanisms.
According to the Disaster Management Centre and local government officials, floodwaters entered dozens of homes in Wattala and nearby areas, including Mabole and Peliyagoda. Several families were temporarily relocated to safety centers as a precautionary measure. Rescue teams, including the Sri Lanka Navy and Civil Defence Force, were deployed to assist residents affected by rising water levels and to monitor vulnerable zones.
Transportation services were severely impacted as several key roads were submerged, causing long traffic delays and disruptions to public bus services. Commuters struggled to reach workplaces as water levels in certain stretches reached knee height. Railway services along affected coastal routes also experienced minor delays due to safety inspections.
The Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology reported that Cyclone Ditwah, located over the Bay of Bengal, continues to influence the country’s weather system. The agency forecast further heavy rainfall, accompanied by strong gusty winds over the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and Southern Provinces. Wind speeds are expected to reach up to 60 kilometres per hour in exposed areas.
Health officials warned of potential post-flood risks including waterborne diseases, urging residents to avoid using contaminated water for drinking and household purposes. Medical teams remain on standby in flood relief centers to assist vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses.
Meanwhile, municipal workers began drainage operations in affected zones in an effort to reduce floodwater levels. Emergency water pumps were deployed in several densely populated locations to speed up water removal. Power supply interruptions were reported in some regions as a precautionary measure to prevent accidents caused by water entering electrical lines.
The Disaster Management Centre urged residents living near canals, rivers, and low-lying areas to remain cautious and to follow official instructions. Fishermen have also been advised to avoid venturing into deep sea areas until weather conditions improve due to rough seas associated with the cyclone’s influence.
Cyclone Ditwah has already caused heavy rainfall across parts of southern India and Sri Lanka in recent days. Sri Lankan authorities remain on high alert as the system continues to move gradually with fluctuating intensity. Weather experts are closely monitoring its trajectory to assess its potential further impact on the island.
Relief operations are ongoing, and the government has assured swift assistance to affected families. Officials have emphasized the importance of community cooperation during the emergency to ensure safety and timely response. The situation in Wattala and surrounding suburbs remains under close observation as rainfall persists intermittently.
