Cyclone Preparedness in Sri Lanka: Learning from 1978 and Facing the Current Threat

As Sri Lanka faces the threat of a developing depression in the southwest Bay of Bengal, memories of the devastating cyclone of 1978 resurface. The Eastern Province, particularly Batticaloa and Trincomalee, bore the brunt of the 1978 cyclone, which unprecedentedly destroyed lives, homes, and livelihoods. This is a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.

The current weather forecast indicates heavy rainfall exceeding 150mm in the Northern Province and Trincomalee district and over 100mm in Batticaloa, Ampara, and other regions. Strong winds of up to 50 km/h are also expected, with localised thunderstorms posing risks across the island. Here's how communities, particularly in rural areas, can prepare for the worst while hoping for the best.

Learning from the 1978 Cyclone

The 1978 cyclone taught Sri Lankans valuable lessons in disaster preparedness and response. In Eastern Province, where the cyclone hit hardest, thousands of homes were destroyed, and vital infrastructure, including schools, bridges, and roads, was swept away. The lack of early warning systems left communities vulnerable, and recovery was slow and painful.

Today, we are better equipped with improved forecasting and communication technologies, but the essence of preparedness remains rooted in community resilience, resource management, and timely action.

Current Situation in Eastern Province

With the depression intensifying, the Eastern Province is once again at risk. Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Ampara districts are likely to experience:

• Very heavy rainfall, leading to potential flooding.
• Strong winds that can damage homes, trees, and power lines.
• Lightning strikes and localised thunderstorms.

To minimise damage, communities must act swiftly and responsibly.

Notable Cyclones in Sri Lanka's History:

1. 1978 Sri Lanka Cyclone: One of the most destructive cyclones to strike Sri Lanka, it landed near Batticaloa on November 23, 1978. The cyclone caused extensive damage, particularly in the Eastern Province, resulting in significant loss of life and property. 

2. 2000 Sri Lanka Cyclone (BOB 06): This cyclone, which developed on December 25, 2000, was the strongest to hit Sri Lanka since 1978. It landed on December 27, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds, leading to flooding and infrastructural damage. 
3. Cyclone Nisha (2008): Formed on November 25, 2008, Cyclone Nisha brought heavy rainfall to Sri Lanka, particularly affecting the Northern and Eastern provinces. The cyclone caused flooding and landslides, resulting in casualties and displacement of communities.

Here’s a table summarising the historical cyclones that have impacted Sri Lanka:

Year	Cyclone Name	Impact	Affected Areas
1978	1978 Sri Lanka Cyclone	Devastating damage from severe wind and rain, extensive destruction in the Eastern Province, and loss of lives and property resulted.	Eastern Province (Batticaloa and surrounding areas).
1992	Cyclone BOB 01	Heavy rainfall and strong winds caused flooding and displacement of people.	Northern and Eastern Provinces.
2000	BOB 06 Cyclone	Strongest cyclone since 1978, with heavy rainfall, flooding, and property damage.	Eastern Province and Northern areas.
2008	Cyclone Nisha	Torrential rains led to flooding, landslides, and displacement of thousands.	Northern and Eastern Provinces.
2016	Cyclone Roanu	Triggered heavy rainfall and floods, loss of lives and homes affected over 200,000 people.	Coastal areas of Sri Lanka, particularly in the west.
2020	Cyclone Burevi	Moderate damage; heavy rain and flooding; agricultural loss.	Northern and Eastern Provinces.

 

Preparation Measures for Rural Areas

1. Early Warning and Communication

• Stay updated through reliable weather sources such as the Meteorological Department and local government announcements.
• Establish community-based warning systems using loudspeakers, temple bells, or SMS alerts.

2. Securing Lives and Property

• Evacuate vulnerable areas, especially low-lying regions prone to flooding. Designate schools or community centres on higher ground as temporary shelters.
• Reinforce roofs, doors, and windows with strong materials to withstand strong winds.
• Move livestock and agricultural supplies to secure locations.

3. Emergency Supplies

Prepare an emergency kit with:

• Clean drinking water, dry rations, and essential medicines.
• Flashlights, batteries, and fully charged mobile phones.
• Important documents in waterproof packaging.

4. Flood Prevention

• Clear drains and canals to allow water to flow freely and reduce flooding.
• Build temporary embankments with sandbags around vulnerable homes and fields.

Safety During and After the Cyclone

• Avoid travelling or venturing outdoors during heavy rain or strong winds.
• Stay away from power lines, flooded areas, and unstable structures.
• Boil drinking water to prevent waterborne diseases and use mosquito nets to guard against dengue.

Long-Term Solutions for Cyclone-Prone Regions

The Eastern Province’s vulnerability to cyclones calls for sustainable, long-term strategies:

• Mangrove Reforestation: Mangroves act as natural barriers against storms and flooding. Expand mangrove belts along the coastlines of Batticaloa, Ampara, and Trincomalee.
• Disaster-Resilient Housing: Construct cyclone-resistant homes and financially support rural families to strengthen their homes.
• Community Training: Conduct regular disaster preparedness drills and educate communities about response strategies.
• Early Warning Systems: Enhance weather monitoring and ensure warnings reach even the most remote villages.

Conclusion

The memories of the 1978 cyclone and the present threat remind us of nature’s unpredictable power. However, with preparation, unity, and resilience, Sri Lanka can minimise damage and save lives. As we brace for the current weather system, let us remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring the safety of our communities and preserving the spirit of our beautiful island nation.

Stay safe, stay prepared!