Colombo, Nov 28 (V7N) — At least 56 people have died due to landslides and floods triggered by continuous heavy rains in Sri Lanka, with more than 600 houses damaged, the country’s Disaster Management Center reported. The worst-hit areas are the hilly districts of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya in central Sri Lanka, according to AP.

In Badulla and Nuwara Eliya, 25 people have died, 21 remain missing, and 14 have been injured. Additional casualties and missing persons have been reported in other parts of the country, where many residents are trapped. Emergency services are working to rescue those affected.

All government offices and educational institutions have been closed due to the severity of the disaster. Continuous rains that began last week worsened on Thursday, submerging houses, agricultural lands, and key roads. Some vehicles were reportedly swept away by strong floods.

Heavy rains have also caused rivers and reservoirs to overflow, flooding roads and forcing the suspension of train services in mountainous areas. Landslides, falling rocks, mudslides, and fallen trees have further disrupted transportation and endangered communities across the country.

Authorities have urged residents to remain indoors, avoid travel, and follow emergency instructions as rescue operations continue.

END/SMA/AJ