Severe flooding in Jaffna displaces thousands

Text and Pic by Dinasena Rathugamage

Heavy rainfall over the past few days has caused severe flooding in Jaffna, affecting 2,456 individuals from 643 families. The ongoing downpours have submerged numerous areas, forcing many residents to evacuate their homes in search of safer shelter.

The historic Nallur Temple, a significant cultural landmark in Jaffna, has also been inundated by the floods. On Thursday (21), the temple’s evening pooja was conducted under difficult conditions due to rising water levels.

The impact of the floodwaters has been devastating, with strong winds and falling trees causing extensive damage. Four homes were completely destroyed, while seven others sustained partial damage. Despite the efforts of Divisional Secretaries and officials from the Disaster Management Center to assist those affected, many areas remain inaccessible due to submerged roads.

In response to the disaster, Northern Province Governor Nagalingam Vethanayagam convened an emergency meeting, directing officials to expedite relief efforts for those affected.

As the torrential rains persist and weather conditions worsen, authorities have imposed a ban on fishing activities in northern waters to ensure safety.