Colombo: At least 47 people have been killed and another 21 have gone missing due to some 10 days of massive flooding and landslides across Sri Lanka, local media reported on Thursday. Rescue operations are ongoing in the hardest-hit areas as the island country continues to experience severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, rising floodwaters, and landslides since November 17, causing disruptions across multiple districts.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Disaster Management Center reported that over 5,893 people across 17 districts have been severely affected by the inclement weather. During this period, 10 individuals have sustained injuries. The Batticaloa district has experienced over 300 millimeters (11.8 inches) of rainfall, an exceptionally high amount for a single period.

A low-pressure system remains anchored over the country, generating heavy winds and repeated waves of intense rainfall. Authorities have issued a red-alert landslide warning for eight high-risk districts, indicating a severe risk to steep slopes, hillside communities, and vulnerable zones. Residents in these districts have been urged to stay on high alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and be prepared for immediate evacuation.