A devastating cyclone has struck Sri Lanka, triggering catastrophic flooding and mudslides that have claimed more than 400 lives and plunged the island nation into a severe humanitarian crisis. The disaster, the worst of its kind in over two decades, has prompted the UK government to issue updated guidance for British nationals.
State of Emergency Declared as Death Toll Rises
Cyclone Ditwah made landfall on Friday, November 28, 2025, after forming over the Bay of Bengal. The United Nations reports that the death toll has surpassed 400, with thousands more individuals still missing in the aftermath. The scale of the destruction is immense, with officials stating approximately one-third of the country is now without running water or electricity.
Around 20,000 homes have been destroyed, forcing countless families into state-run emergency accommodation. In response to the catastrophe, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared a state of emergency and appealed for international aid. Neighbouring countries, including India and Pakistan, have already dispatched rescue teams to assist.
UK Foreign Office Travel Advice for Sri Lanka
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for Sri Lanka following the extreme weather. While it has not advised against all travel, it highlights significant dangers and disruptions.
The FCDO states: ‘Sri Lanka is currently experiencing severe weather. Heavy rain has caused flooding and landslides which are causing travel disruption across the country. Some flights have been diverted, check with your airline or tour operator if you are due to fly.’
For British tourists in need of assistance, the FCDO points to a dedicated helpline operated by Sri Lanka Tourism, available 24 hours a day on 1912.
Worst-Hit Areas and Ongoing Dangers
The cyclone caused the Kelani River to burst its banks, affecting the capital, Colombo, and surrounding low-lying regions. The areas most severely impacted include:
- Gampaha
- Colombo
- Puttalam
- Mannar
- Trincomalee
- Batticaloa
- Kandy
- Badulla
- Matale
According to UK assessments, over 200 roads and at least 10 bridges remain impassable, severely hampering relief efforts. There are also growing concerns about food insecurity, as vast tracts of farmland have been submerged and key supply routes disrupted.
Can You Cancel or Claim on Travel Insurance?
For travellers considering cancelling planned holidays to Sri Lanka, the situation regarding refunds and insurance is complex. Most travel insurance policies will only pay out for cancellations if the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the destination. As this specific warning is not currently in place for Sri Lanka, claims are unlikely to be successful.
Furthermore, insurers typically will not cover 'anticipated' events. If the extreme weather was forecast before you booked your trip or purchased your policy, you are unlikely to receive a refund. Travellers are advised to check the 'cancellation and curtailment' section of their specific policy and contact their airline or tour operator directly.
Regional Impact and Emergency Contacts
The severe weather has also affected other parts of South Asia. A separate system, Cyclone Senyar, is thought to have killed more than 1,000 people across Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The FCDO advises against travel to parts of these countries, though these warnings are not specifically related to the recent weather.
For those in Sri Lanka facing an emergency, the key contact numbers are:
- Ambulance: 011 2691111 or 1990
- Fire and Rescue: 111
- Police: 118/119
- Tourist Police: 011 2421052
British nationals can also contact the Foreign Office for crisis support. The path to recovery for Sri Lanka will be long, and the international community is urged to provide support where possible.
