URGENT TRAVEL ALERT: Severe Flood and Landslide Warnings Across Sri Lanka

Posted: November 27, 2025

IMPORTANT: If you are currently in Sri Lanka or planning to arrive in the next 48-72 hours, please read this safety advisory carefully.

Sri Lanka is currently experiencing extreme weather conditions caused by a low-pressure system anchored over the island. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rising floodwaters have created hazardous travel conditions across the majority of the country.

🚨 Current Situation Report (November 27, 2025)

As of Thursday morning, the Disaster Management Center (DMC) and local media report that inclement weather has severely affected daily life in 17 districts.

• Casualties: Tragically, at least 31 people have been killed and 14 are currently missing due to flash floods and landslides.
• Impact: Over 4,000 people have been severely affected.
• Rainfall Intensity: The Batticaloa district alone recorded over 300mm of rainfall, an exceptionally high volume for a single period.

🗺️ Affected Areas: Where NOT to Travel

The severe flood risk is currently widespread. Authorities have flagged the following provinces as high-risk zones:

1. North Central Province (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa)
2. Eastern Province (Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Ampara)
3. Uva Province (Badulla, Monaragala)
4. Northern Province (Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu)
5. North Western Province (Kurunegala, Puttalam)
6. Central Province (Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Matale)
7. Southern Province (Galle, Matara, Hambantota)
8. Sabaragamuwa Province (Ratnapura, Kegalle)
9. Western Province (Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara)

⚠️ Red Alert: Landslide Warnings

A Red Alert Landslide Warning has been issued for eight high-risk districts. If you are staying in hillside areas (such as Ella, Nuwara Eliya, or parts of Kandy/Ratnapura), you must remain hyper-vigilant regarding steep slopes and unstable terrain.

🛡️ Guidance for Travelers

If You Are Currently in Sri Lanka:

1. Avoid Unnecessary Travel: The government has urged residents and visitors to limit travel. Roads may be submerged, and rail lines may be blocked by fallen trees or earth slips.
2. Stay Away from Water Bodies: Do not attempt to swim in rivers, waterfalls, or rough seas. Flash floods can occur instantly.
3. Check with Your Hotel: Before leaving your accommodation, confirm the safety of your route with hotel management. They will have local knowledge of road closures.
4. Listen to Local Authorities: If evacuation orders are given for your area, comply immediately.

If You Are Planning to Fly In:

1. Contact Your Accommodation: Call your hotel or guesthouse to confirm they are accessible and operational. Some coastal and inland hotels may be affected by flooding.
2. Monitor Flight Status: While the airport typically remains open, transport to and from the airport (Bandaranaike International Airport) can be delayed due to flooded approach roads.
3. Consider Itinerary Changes: If your trip involves hiking, waterfalls, or safaris in the affected provinces, you should look into rescheduling those activities.

📞 Emergency Contact Numbers

Save these numbers on your phone immediately:

• Disaster Management Center (DMC): 117
• Police Emergency: 119
• Ambulance Service (Suwa Seriya): 1990
• Tourist Police: +94 11 242 1052

Final Note

While Sri Lanka is a beautiful destination, safety must be your priority right now. The weather patterns are currently unpredictable with repeated waves of intense rainfall.

We will update this blog post as the situation evolves. Please follow our social media channels for real-time updates.

Stay safe, stay dry, and keep your loved ones informed.

Source: Anadolu Agency, Daily Mirror, Disaster Management Center Sri Lanka.