Deadly Storm in Sri Lanka Kills 69 and Leaves Thousands Homeless
The English section of webangah News Agency reported, citing Cairo Al-Akhbariya via Mehr News Agency, that a severe storm in Sri Lanka has caused dozens of casualties.
News sources confirmed that 69 people have died due to Cyclone Dethwah in northern sri Lanka, with thousands injured and displaced.
Local authorities reported 23 people missing following the destructive storm. The Sri lankan meteorological department warned of increased rainfall over the coming hours.
The majority of fatalities were caused by landslides triggered by heavy flooding.Over the past hours, more then 300 millimeters of rain fell as Cyclone Dethwah swept across eastern and central sri Lanka.
According to local officials, 43,991 people have been relocated to schools and shelter centers nationwide.Some families sought refuge on their rooftops amid rising floodwaters.
Schools have been closed and train services suspended.
Rescue teams are active in affected areas; however,landslides have made access to some villages impossible.
Sri Lankan airport authorities also announced that adverse weather conditions are disrupting flights across the country.
