President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has conveyed heartfelt condolences to Sri Lanka as the country grapples with catastrophic flooding, torrential rainfall and deadly landslides triggered by days of extreme weather.

In his message, President Muizzu expressed sorrow over the rising loss of life and severe destruction, reaffirming that the Maldivian people stand in solidarity with Sri Lanka during this national tragedy.

Sri Lanka has experienced an exceptional weather event, with 360 millimetres of rain falling within just 48 hours — the highest recorded in such a short period in recent history.

The intense downpour, compounded by strong winds, inundated large swathes of the island and unleashed landslides in several districts.

The Sri Lanka Meteorological Department issued its first-ever red alert as the crisis escalated.

The Disaster Management Center has confirmed 56 deaths so far, while 21 people remain missing.

Tragically, 26 of the victims were buried in landslides in the central tea-growing district of Badulla.

Fourteen people are receiving treatment in hospital, and the disaster has affected 5,893 individuals from 1,729 households.

President Muizzu’s message highlighted deep sympathy for the families impacted and reaffirmed Maldives’ support as Sri Lanka confronts one of its most severe natural disasters in recent memory.