Over a million people still need aid weeks after Sri Lanka cyclone

Nearly a month after Cyclone Ditwah swept across Sri Lanka, more than 1.2 million people—including over half a million children—still need humanitarian help, according to UN assessments. The cyclone hit the island’s eastern coast on November 28, setting off floods and landslides across all 25 districts. Fresh rains in recent weeks have triggered more flooding and road closures, especially in the central districts of Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Polonnaruwa.

Around 1.8 million people—roughly 8 percent of Sri Lanka’s population—have been affected by the disaster. A joint rapid assessment led by national authorities found extensive damage across all nine provinces, with major disruptions to water, sanitation, healthcare and education, and higher risks for women, children and people with disabilities.

Food insecurity is climbing, with nearly one in three households running short on meals and many families cutting back on portions. More than 1,300 schools and six universities were damaged, and around 500 schools are still being used as temporary shelters. UNICEF reports that many children remain in overcrowded centers or with host families, where poor lighting, lack of privacy and inadequate sanitation raise protection risks, including gender-based violence. Over 272,000 people are still displaced, most staying with host communities while others shelter in schools, religious buildings and community centers. As of mid-December, authorities reported 643 deaths, 183 people missing, and more than 107,000 homes damaged or destroyed.

The cyclone has hit livelihoods hard. A World Bank rapid assessment put the damage at $4.1 billion—4 percent of the country’s GDP. Agriculture losses alone are estimated at over $800 million, with more than 58,000 hectares of paddy land flooded in eastern districts, threatening food production and incomes for small farmers.

The UN and humanitarian partners launched a Humanitarian Priorities Plan this month, seeking $35.3 million to support the most vulnerable. UNICEF needs $7.8 million to maintain its emergency response for children, but as of December 23, less than half that amount had been received or pledged. Agencies warn that without sustained funding, recovery will drag on—particularly for children whose education, safety and well-being remain at risk.