SLRCS mobilizes relief efforts amidst devastating floods, calls for support 

Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS) deployed its relief teams across the districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Matara, Galle, Ratnapura, and Puttalam affected by escalating flood situation caused by the Southwest monsoon rains, an SLRCS release said.

Thousands of families have been forced to evacuate their homes and seek refuge in safe locations such as temples, churches, and other public places, with many inaccessible areas in the country. Many homes have sustained severe damage, power supplies have been disrupted, and children are unable to attend school due to closures.

The SLRCS teams are providing immediate first-aid assistance, supporting the evacuation process alongside public authorities, and addressing the urgent needs of the displaced populations. Critical requirements include safe drinking water, sleeping mats, bedsheets, sanitary napkins and other hygiene products, clothing, medical aid, mosquito nets, food, school stationery and more.

SLRCS Director General, Dr. Mahesh Gunasekara said: “The monsoons are active, and heavy rains are expected in the upcoming week, even though the rains have stopped for the time being. Thereby, coordinated relief efforts are crucial, because of the high and overwhelming magnitude of this disaster.

Our volunteers are working tirelessly to support the affected communities, but we urgently require additional resources to continue our life-saving work. We call upon the generosity of individuals and organisations to join us at this crucial time.”The SLRCS release said that the contributions could be made through the GiveAsia platform.