UPDATE: The Sun is Back! Southern Sri Lanka Welcomes Travelers as Floods Recede

Posted: December 2, 2025

Photo by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash

What a difference a few days make.

Last week, we issued an urgent travel alert due to severe adverse weather affecting much of the island. Today, we are relieved to share a significantly brighter outlook, particularly for those planning to travel "Down South."

While recovery efforts continue in some of the hardest-hit inland areas, the popular southern coastal belt is returning to normal with remarkable speed. Sri Lanka is resilient, and the sun is once again shining on the south coast.

Here is the latest operational update based on data from local authorities and our ground partners as of Tuesday morning, December 2nd.

🌤️ The Current Weather Situation

According to the latest department briefings, the low-pressure system responsible for last week's deluge has moved away from the island.

While isolated showers are always possible in the tropics, the continuous, heavy rainfall has ceased across the Southern Province. The Disaster Management Center (DMC) reports that water levels in major southern river basins, crucial indicators for flood risk in Galle and Matara districts, are steadily receding. The immediate threat of widespread flash flooding in tourist zones has passed.

🛣️ Road and Transport Update

This is the most critical information for travelers currently planning their movements:

• The Southern Expressway (E01) is Clear: The main artery connecting Colombo to Galle, Matara, and Hambantota is fully operational. Traveling from the airport or the capital to the south coast is once again fast and safe.
• Coastal Roads are Passable: The main Galle Road (A2), which runs along the ocean, is open. Travelers may encounter Road Development Authority crews clearing residual mud or debris on the shoulders in a few isolated spots, but traffic is flowing normally to major beach towns like Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Weligama.
• Trains are Running: Coastal train services, which saw disruptions last week, are resuming regular schedules as tracks have been inspected and cleared.

🏖️ Galle and the South Coast: Open for Business

We have been in contact with our hotel and tour partners across the southern region this morning. The message is unanimous: We are open.

Hotels, restaurants, and cafes in Galle Fort, Mirissa, and Tangalle are fully operational. While the ocean might still be a bit churned up in some areas due to the recent storms, beach access is open, and the cleanup in tourist areas has been swift.

🛡️ Traveler Advice Moving Forward

While the "Red Alert" phase is over for southern tourist travel, we recommend a few practical steps for the next few days:

1. Stick to Main Routes: Primary roads are clear. Avoid venturing onto minor, unpaved backroads in the interior without checking local conditions first, as these take longer to dry out.
2. Confirm Activities: If you have booked inland excursions, such as hiking or visits to remote tea estates in the southern interior, give your provider a quick call to ensure access routes are clear.
3. Enjoy Responsibly: Tourism is vital to these communities, especially as they recover from a tough week. Your visit is welcomed now more than ever.

Final Note

If you postponed your trip to the south last week, now is the time to reinstate your plans. The beaches are waiting.

Stay updated, travel safe, and enjoy the sunshine.