More than 275,000 children are estimated to have been affected by the widespread floods and deadly landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
Cyclone Ditwah, which made landfall on November 28, has left children across Sri Lanka facing a rapidly worsening humanitarian emergency. UNICEF noted that initial assessments indicate that children make up a significant portion of the 1.4 million people affected nationwide. However, the actual number may be higher due to ongoing communication disruptions and blocked access routes.
“UNICEF remains deeply concerned about the destruction the cyclone has caused to children and the vital services they depend on for their safety and well-being. We stand in solidarity with families who have suffered losses and displacement and extend our deepest condolences to those mourning loved ones,” said Emma Brigham, UNICEF Representative in Sri Lanka.
“Children urgently need help. It is a race against time to reach the most vulnerable families who direly require lifesaving services,” she added. “And while the cyclone may have passed, the consequences have not.”
The cyclone has caused severe damage to homes and essential infrastructure, while the disruption of critical services has led to mass displacement. UNICEF warns that the situation heightens the risk of disease outbreaks, malnutrition, unsafe living conditions, and severe emotional distress among children.
UNICEF Sri Lanka is currently coordinating with the government, national authorities, and partner organisations to assess needs and deliver emergency assistance. To support the hardest-hit districts, UNICEF is scaling up its response and appealing for additional funding to provide clean drinking water, essential nutrition supplies, psychosocial support, and emergency education kits for displaced children and mothers.
