More than 200 people are dead and over 100 missing after severe flooding devastated the southwestern region of Sri Lanka in late May. The monsoonal rains have displaced 600,000 from their communities, while leaving many water sources contaminated and unsafe.

Mudslides and floods cause devastation in Sri Lanka – in pictures

Last Friday heavy rain caused floods and landslides that killed more than 200 people and displaced 600,000 from their homes in Sri Lanka

Nearly 12,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed with 15 out of 25 districts affected by severe weather conditions.

The catastrophic rainfall is the worst to hit the country in almost 15 years.

In the coming days, local organizations will receive emergency medical aid from Direct Relief. With a focus on mobilizing resources and saving lives, organizations have requested assistance to address potential disease outbreaks among displaced populations. Front-line responders have intensified medical response efforts to support communities affected by high flood waters.

Emergency medical items like antibiotics and wound care supplies were specifically requested to treat displaced communities in affected regions. After widespread flooding, stagnant water sources can become contaminated, leading to a host of health issues. Crowded evacuation shelters with inadequate sanitation may lead to disease outbreaks, making emergency medical aid crucial.

As flood waters recede, Direct Relief will continue to actively respond and support health partners in Sri Lanka with essential medical aid.

Sri Lanka Floods Seen in Stunning Before-and-After NASA Animated Image

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