Landslide Risk Identified in 14 Districts

14-Dec-2025

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Fourteen districts in Sri Lanka have been identified as being at risk of landslides, covering 30% of the country’s land area and 34% of its population, according to National Building Research Organisation Director Vasana Senadeera.

Speaking at a press conference on 12-12-2025, he stated that people must evacuate immediately when landslide warnings are issued.

Since Nov 20, inspections have been requested at 2,710 locations, of which 589 have been assessed. After Cyclone, 736 incidents including ground cracks have been recorded, along with 482 soil slips and 42 rock fractures.

Satellite imagery has identified 1,200 locations with landslides extending over 100 meters. Of these, 919 caused no housing damage, while 322 damaged homes. A total of 1,291 houses have been completely affected.

Approximately 15,000 potential landslide-prone locations have been identified and communicated to the public. Authorities warned against constructing buildings in areas under landslide warnings.

This year, landslides have caused the highest number of fatalities, and the public is urged to follow warnings and move to safer locations during heavy rainfall.