Summary: Heavy rains and Cyclone Ditwah in late November caused flooding and landslides across parts of Sri Lanka. While many main roads have now reopened, dozens of local routes and smaller bridges remain blocked or waterlogged. Health authorities warn of elevated risk for mosquito‑borne and water‑borne illnesses (notably dengue and leptospirosis).

Current road status — where travel is possible

Major reopened routes: Colombo–Kurunegala, Colombo–Kandy (via Katugastota), Kurunegala–Anuradhapura (via Padeniya), and A9 Kandy–Jaffna have been reported as passable for general traffic.
Partially open / single‑lane: Several previously blocked roads are reopened but limited to single‑lane traffic with alternating flow — expect delays and traffic control at affected sections.
Still blocked: Authorities report roughly 122 routes remain blocked across the island due to landslides or severe flood damage; many are local or rural connectors.

Flooded or high‑risk areas (avoid if possible)

Floodwater remains high in low‑lying and riverside suburbs, especially along the Kelani River and several Gampaha/Colombo outskirts. Some neighbourhoods remain partially submerged or waterlogged; bridges and smaller roads may still be damaged.

Please avoid unnecessary travel to riverside towns and low‑lying suburbs until water levels fall and local authorities confirm safety.

Expected timeline — will it clear in 2–3 days?

Clear‑up crews are actively working and several main routes have already been reopened. Officials expect that many reopened roads will be fully passable for regular passenger vehicles within 2–3 days in stable weather, but badly damaged bridges, landslide sites, and some rural connectors may take longer.

Note: Recovery depends on rainfall upstream and river levels — renewed rain could delay recovery in some basins. Always check local advisories before travel.

Health risks & traveler precautions

Dengue: Post‑flood mosquito breeding increases dengue risk. Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves at dawn/dusk, and favor air‑conditioned or screened rooms.
Leptospirosis: Avoid contact with floodwater. Cover cuts, wear boots if you must enter wet zones, and seek prompt medical care for fever, severe headache or muscle pain.
Water‑borne illnesses: Use bottled or boiled water; avoid street ice of unknown source and eat from reputable vendors.

Practical advice (for bookings and trips)

When booking, tell us your preferred route and we will confirm road status and recommend the safest option.
Allow extra travel time — delays and detours are common while crews work on clearance.
Consider flexible plans for trips into hill country or remote villages — those areas are most likely to have local disruptions.
Keep travel insurance details and local emergency contacts with you. Inform your hotel or host about your itinerary.

Need help from Ceylon Taxi?

We are operating where it is safe. If your route involves flood‑affected areas, contact us and we will suggest safe alternative routes, adjust pickup/drop times, or postpone non‑essential transfers until conditions improve.

Short Q&A

Q	A
Are major airports open?	Bandaranaike International Airport remains operational for commercial flights; internal delays are possible—check with your airline.
Is it safe to travel to hill stations?	Some hill roads have reopened but expect local closures. Ask us for an on‑route check before you go.
How long until roads fully clear?	Many main roads could be fully passable within 2–3 days; local restoration may take longer.