More than 48,000 families affected by floods and landslides triggered by Cyclone DITWA are still unable to return to their homes, according to the latest report released by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
UNICEF said 48,350 families are currently staying with relatives, friends, or in rented accommodation, while 2,199 families remain in temporary displacement camps across the country.
Although the number of displaced people has gradually declined, the agency warned that the humanitarian needs of affected communities remain critical. The report highlights urgent requirements for nutritious food, safe water and sanitation facilities, family protection measures, mental health support, and continued access to education for children impacted by the disaster.
The cyclone has severely disrupted schooling, with nearly 890,000 children affected. Of them, 822,751 are school-going children, while approximately 68,000 are preschool-aged, UNICEF said.
To maintain ongoing assistance for displaced children and families, UNICEF reported that an additional US$2.1 million (around 6.5 billion Sri Lankan rupees) was still needed as of the 21st of this month.
So far, the response effort has received US$4.73 million (approximately 14.6 billion Sri Lankan rupees) in funding, with a further US$1 million pledged by donors.
UNICEF estimates that a total of US$7.8 million (about 24.1 billion Sri Lankan rupees) is required to provide life-saving emergency support to those affected by the disaster.
The cyclone and subsequent flooding have left 1.2 million people in need of urgent humanitarian assistance, including 527,000 children, the agency said.
UNICEF has called on the international community to strengthen its support to ensure vulnerable families and children receive sustained protection, education, and essential services in the weeks ahead.