As many as 56 people were killed as torrential rains, floods and landslides due to Cyclone Ditwah wreaked havoc in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan authorites have said over 43,900 people from 12,313 families have been affected by the extreme weather conditions.
According to local media reports, the number of people who died in the cyclone-related incidents could cross 100.
Severe weather conditions have disrupted normal life as road closures and rail disruptions have been reported across the country. Heavy rains impacted the operations at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport , forcing the diversion of 15 flights.
Widespread electricity outages have also been reported, and around seven million consumers are affected. Telecom services, too, have been affected.
The irrigation department warned residents in low-lying northern parts of Colombo near the Kelani River to evacuate, saying the area could face its worst flooding in the island nation's history.
INS Vikrant for rescue operations
Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant would be deployed in Sri Lanka for rescue operations, officials said on Friday.
Sri Lanka had formally requested the use of the aircraft carrier, which had recently docked in Colombo for port calls on November 25-26 as part of preparations for the International Fleet Review 2025, scheduled for November 30, for ongoing rescue and relief operations.
India sends relief supplies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives and announced relief supplies for the cyclone-battered nation.
"My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families," the prime minister said in a tweet.
"In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves," he said.
