Cyclone Ditwah devastates Sri Lanka, 56 dead, over 20 missing

Cyclone Ditwah has caused large-scale destruction across Sri Lanka, leaving 56 people dead and more than 20 missing. Strong winds, heavy rainfall and multiple landslides have severely impacted normal life, prompting authorities to close schools, suspend railway services and move residents to public shelters.

The Colombo Stock Exchange shut early due to worsening weather, while five flights headed for Colombo were diverted to Thiruvananthapuram. Officials fear the cyclone may intensify further within the next 12 hours.

The system is now advancing towards India. Meteorological forecasts warn of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu until December 1, with November 29-30 expected to be the most high-risk period. The cyclone is likely to reach the south Indian coastline on Sunday morning, according to the IMD.

Authorities have advised fishermen not to venture into the sea and urged farmers to take protective measures to limit crop damage. People have also been cautioned against standing near electric poles or under trees during strong winds and rain.