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Deadly Landslides and Floods in Sri Lanka: 31 Killed, 14 Missing as Heavy Rains Wreck Hill Country

Heavy rains have caused deadly landslides and floods in Sri Lanka, killing 31 people and leaving 14 missing, mainly in the central highlands of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya. Train services and several major roads have been suspended as crews clear debris and respond to inundated routes. Around 4,000 families have been affected, and rescue teams including naval units are assisting with evacuations. Authorities warn of continued flooding and landslide risks as rivers and reservoirs remain full.

12:55 PM, 11/27/2025Environment

Heavy rains have triggered widespread landslides and flooding across parts of Sri Lanka, forcing authorities to halt passenger train services and close key roads. Officials report that at least 31 people have died and 14 are missing, with dozens more displaced as rivers and reservoirs overflow.

Impact and affected areas

The government’s disaster management centre said 18 of the fatalities occurred in the tea-growing highlands of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya in the central province, roughly 300 kilometres (186 miles) east of Colombo. Additional damage and disruptions were reported in eastern districts, including Ampara, where television footage showed a car being swept away by floodwaters.

Transport and response

Flooding and landslides have blocked roads and littered rail lines with rocks, mud and fallen trees. Authorities suspended train services in affected hill-country sections while crews cleared debris and assessed track safety. Several key provincial roads remain closed as emergency teams work to reopen routes and assist stranded residents.

Naval vehicles and rescue teams have been mobilized to evacuate residents from flooded areas and to support relief efforts. The disaster management centre estimates roughly 4,000 families have been affected by the severe weather, which began intensifying last week.

Ongoing risks

With many rivers and reservoirs overflowing, officials warned of continued flooding and further landslide risk in vulnerable mountain slopes. Authorities urged residents in low-lying and hillside communities to follow evacuation orders and stay away from swollen waterways and unstable terrain.

Note: Rescue operations and damage assessments are ongoing. Local officials continue to provide updates as conditions evolve.

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