COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – 02 September 2026 – A critical drought situation continues to impact several regions across Sri Lanka, with the latest report from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) confirming that over 88,000 persons have been affected nationwide. Released today, 02nd September 2026, the “Drought Situation Report” highlights the ongoing challenges posed by dry weather conditions and details the urgent water supply initiatives being undertaken by the DMC.
According to the comprehensive report, a total of 27,475 families, comprising 88,068 individuals, are currently experiencing the severe effects of the drought. The DMC is actively coordinating the provision of vital drinking water to these affected communities, a testament to the nation’s proactive disaster management efforts.
Affected Provinces and Districts
The drought’s impact is widespread, affecting multiple Divisional Secretariat (DS) Divisions across four key provinces:
- Eastern Province: This region is the most severely hit, with 12,370 families (37,370 persons) affected. Batticaloa District reports 9,547 families across 8 DS Divisions, while Ampara District accounts for 2,823 families in 3 DS Divisions.
- Uva Province: Following closely, Uva Province has 13,978 families (46,273 persons) grappling with water scarcity. Moneragala District sees 11,751 families affected in 8 DS Divisions, and Badulla District registers 2,227 families across 5 DS Divisions.
- Sabaragamuwa Province: Rathnapura District reports 144 families (499 persons) affected in one DS Division.
- North Central Province: Polonnaruwa District has 983 families (2,646 persons) affected across 3 DS Divisions.
DMC’s Response and Ongoing Efforts
The Disaster Management Centre, operating under its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), is the central authority spearheading relief efforts. The report underscores that the primary form of assistance currently being provided to all affected areas is the supply of clean drinking water, crucial for mitigating the immediate health and livelihood impacts of the drought.
The timely release of this situation report by Samanmalee Mathararachchi, Assistant Director / Duty Officer for the Director General, ensures transparency and enables coordinated action among various government agencies and humanitarian organizations.
As the dry weather conditions persist, the DMC continues to monitor the situation closely, ready to scale up its response as required. The agency encourages the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with local authorities on water conservation measures.
For further information and assistance, the Disaster Management Centre can be reached via Hot Lines: 117, 0112670002, 0112136136, or visit their official website at www.dmc.gov.lk.
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