Sri Lanka is facing a serious national disaster right now, with floods, landslides and severe transport disruptions affecting daily life across many districts. With conditions changing quickly, it’s important for all of us to stay informed, stay calm and stay prepared. I’ve put together this advisory to help families and individuals navigate the next few days safely and responsibly.
Emergency Hotlines — Keep Them Handy
If you or someone you know needs urgent help, here are useful hotlines and contact numbers to save now.
Disaster Management Centre (DMC) — Emergency Call Centre (24/7): 117
DMC — Alternate contact numbers: +94 11 213 6222 / +94 11 267 0002
Sri Lanka Police — Emergency / Disaster Support Hotlines: 011-2421820; other lines: 011-2439212, 011-2013036, 011-2013039
Police (general emergencies): 119 / 118
Ambulance / Medical Emergencies (via Suwasariya Ambulance Service): 1990
Fire & Rescue Services: 110
Keep these numbers on speed-dial, save them on your phone, and write them down somewhere accessible. In emergencies or if you need help with evacuation, rescue or first aid — call these without delay.
- Travel Only If You Absolutely Must
Road conditions across the country are unstable. Many routes are damaged, flooded or under repair, and new risks are still emerging. Upcountry train services are running with major restrictions, so delays and cancellations are likely.
If you planned to travel, especially long-distance, it’s best to postpone it. Before leaving home, check with local authorities or verified news sources about road closures and safe routes. Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas or roads near unstable slopes.
- Stay Alert If You’re in a High-Risk Area
People living in Kandy, Central Province, Uva Province, Eastern Province and flood-plain areas are currently at higher risk of landslides, earth slips and sudden flooding. These situations can escalate without warning.
Keep your phone charged throughout the day and night. Know where the nearest safe gathering point or evacuation centre is. If your home is close to a steep slope or unstable hillside, it’s safer to relocate temporarily until conditions improve. Move children, elders and those with disabilities to a secure location early.
- Prepare Your Emergency Supplies Now
A reliable emergency kit can make a huge difference during a crisis. Every home should have clean drinking water for at least two to three days, dry food, essential medicines and a basic first-aid kit. Keep power banks fully charged. Store important documents like IDs and land deeds in waterproof bags. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the emergency supplies are kept.
If you have infants, elderly parents or pets, prepare separate essentials for them as well.
- Be Ready for Shortages and Price Changes
Agricultural regions have been hit hard, and transport interruptions may cause temporary shortages in vegetables, rice and daily essentials. Prices may rise in some markets. Instead of panic buying, shop wisely and buy only what your family truly needs for a short period. Overbuying will only increase pressure on already strained supply chains.
- Follow Verified Information Only
During disasters, misinformation spreads quickly and can lead to unnecessary panic or dangerous decisions. Always follow updates from DMC, the Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka, local authorities, and official government sources. Avoid sharing unverified posts on social media. If something seems questionable, cross-check it with a trusted source before believing or forwarding it.
- Look Out for Your Community
Strong communities can save lives. Check on neighbours who may need support, especially elderly individuals or families living alone. If someone near you lives in a slope-prone or flood-prone zone, encourage them to relocate early. If you can safely help with transport, evacuation or delivering essentials, it will make a real difference. You can also donate items like dry rations, clean clothing, bedding and hygiene products to trusted relief centres.
Stay Calm, Stay Prepared and Stay Connected
Sri Lanka has faced natural disasters before, and every time, our strength has been our ability to support one another. The next few days will require patience, awareness and responsible decision-making. By staying prepared, keeping these hotline numbers at hand, and paying attention to official advice, we can protect our families and help our communities stay safe.
