Situation report on the Cyclone Ditwah Response in Sri Lanka (April-May 2026)

Five months since Cyclone Ditwah’s landfall in Sri Lanka, the humanitarian situation has shifted markedly. Of the 2.2 million people initially affected, most have returned to normal life, although many continue to recover from significant losses and disrupted livelihoods. Temporary safety centre populations have significantly declined, with most families now living in host communities or government-supported rental accommodation.

Conditions in safety centres have improved significantly, reflecting the collective efforts of response partners over recent months. While the situation has improved for most, UNFPA and its partners continue to address residual protection risks and recovery needs associated with prolonged displacement, psychosocial distress and economic hardships.

As affected communities transition further into the recovery phase, the need for mental health and psychosocial support remains significant. Community-based initiatives continue to play a key role in helping people rebuild social connections, strengthen resilience, and recover from the longer-term impacts of displacement and loss.

UNFPA launched an appeal for US $8.3 million in early December 2025 in response to Cyclone Ditwah. To date, US $1,214,356 (15 per cent) has been mobilized to deliver life-saving sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence services.