Crisis overview
Since 14 May, heavy rain has been affecting almost all provinces, causing severe floods and landslides. 19 out of 25 districts have been affected, and over 350,000 people according to official figures, including 200,000 people who have been evacuated to temporary shelters. Over 2,400 homes have been damaged or destroyed. Almost 40 people have been killed, including 35 people killed by a landslide in Kegalle, close to Colombo, on 18 May. As relief operations continue the death toll is expected to rise (Government 18/05/2016; ECHO 17/05/2016; Sri Lanka Red Cross 17/05/2016; Washington Post 18/05/2016).
Key findings
Anticipated scope and scale
In coastal regions, more landslides and lightning strikes could occur as more rain is forecast. Elsewhere, heavy rains are expected to begin subsiding by 18 May, although wet and loose terrain means more landslides are anticipated. It is likely to be at least one week before residents can return home.
Priorities for humanitarian intervention
Shelter and NFIs: over 2,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.
WASH and food assistance needs are likely given the destruction of shelters and number of people affected.
Humanitarian constraints
Roads are submerged and roads have been closed across the country. In rural areas roads are also blocked by debris as a result of landslides.