Cyclone Ditwah: Impact, Path, Destruction in Sri Lanka & India Alerts
Cyclone Ditwah: Cyclone Ditwah has emerged as one of the most impactful storms of 2025 in the North Indian Ocean region. The storm, named “Ditwah” after the scenic Detwah Lagoon in Yemen, formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal and quickly intensified due to favourable oceanic and atmospheric conditions. What began as a well-marked low over Sri Lanka soon strengthened into a depression and eventually developed into a full-fledged cyclonic storm on November 27, 2025, prompting red alerts across coastal regions.
As the system moved across Sri Lanka, it unleashed widespread devastation. Torrential rainfall, sudden floods and alarming landslides brought life to a standstill across multiple districts. The island nation faced one of its worst natural disasters in recent years, with the death toll crossing 150 and hundreds still reported missing. Nearly half a million people have been affected, and more than 78,000 residents had to be shifted to temporary relief shelters, mostly schools, after their homes were submerged. Rivers swelled beyond danger levels, while continuous rainfall made rescue operations extremely challenging. According to Sri Lankan officials and international agencies, the flooding linked to Cyclone Ditwah could be the most severe the country has witnessed in over a decade.
After crossing Sri Lanka, Cyclone Ditwah moved north-northwestwards into the Bay of Bengal, posing a direct threat to the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued multiple advisories, warning of heavy to very heavy rain, strong winds and dangerous sea conditions. Wind speeds were estimated to reach 65 km/h, with gusts touching nearly 90 to 100 km/h near the storm’s centre. These conditions made the sea extremely unsafe for fishermen, prompting authorities to impose a strict ban on all fishing activities until at least December 1. Waves measuring up to five metres were recorded in several zones, further indicating the intensity of the storm.
In India, precautionary measures were taken swiftly. The Tamil Nadu government declared school closures in several districts, while Chennai International Airport cancelled over 50 flights due to low visibility and strong winds. Disaster Response Forces, including NDRF teams, were deployed along vulnerable stretches of the coastline. Evacuation plans were prepared for low-lying areas, and continuous announcements urged residents to stay indoors, avoid coastal regions and prepare essential supplies. Power departments and local administrations remained on alert, anticipating tree falls, waterlogging and disruption to electrical lines.
Cyclone Ditwah’s threat has been heightened by the region’s already saturated ground conditions due to recent heavy rainfall. Meteorologists warn that even moderate additional rain may lead to urban flooding, slow drainage and increased risk of landslides in hilly belts. Coastal regions like Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Puducherry and Nellore were placed under stricter monitoring because of their vulnerability to storm surge and tidal waves.
Experts believe that Ditwah’s rapid intensification signifies a worrying trend linked to rising sea surface temperatures. The Bay of Bengal has long been a breeding ground for severe cyclones, but the frequency and intensity have shown a noticeable increase in recent years. Warmer oceans allow storms to strengthen faster and sustain their energy for longer durations, resulting in greater damage once they make landfall.
As Cyclone Ditwah continues its movement along the Indian coastline, authorities urge citizens to remain cautious. People in affected regions are advised to secure loose objects at home, store drinking water and essential medicines, keep flashlights and batteries ready, and avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary. Coastal residents have been repeatedly instructed to stay away from beaches and avoid venturing into the sea under any circumstances.
Cyclone Ditwah is a reminder of how vulnerable South Asian countries remain to extreme weather events. From large-scale displacement and infrastructure damage in Sri Lanka to potential flooding risks in India, the storm highlights the need for stronger coastal planning, improved drainage systems and more resilient urban infrastructure. As disaster-management teams work tirelessly to mitigate the impact, the priority remains the same: saving lives and ensuring communities remain safe in the face of nature’s fury.
If the storm maintains its projected path, southern India may witness significant rainfall and wind conditions over the coming days. Continuous updates from IMD and state governments are essential for residents, and staying informed can make a crucial difference at a time like this. Cyclone Ditwah’s unfolding impact will continue to shape regional weather patterns and safety measures in the days ahead, underscoring the importance of preparedness in the era of changing climate.
