Death toll from floods and landslides in Sri Lanka tops 100

The death toll from severe flooding and landslides in Sri Lanka reached 100 on Saturday, government officials said.

The Disaster Management Ministry said that 99 people were still missing and rescue operations were continuing.

Over 200,000 people have been affected by the rain which affected several parts of the country on Thursday.

The Department of Meteorology said on Saturday that while the rain had reduced, monsoonal showers and windy conditions will continue over the south-western part of the island.

Earlier, Sri Lanka's Foreign Ministry said it had activated an Emergency Response Unit of the ministry, to coordinate rescue and relief measures related to the flood situation in several parts of the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Disaster Management, had made an appeal to the United Nations International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) and neighboring countries to provide assistance to affected people, especially in the areas of search and rescue operations.

The Foreign Ministry said it will continue to monitor the flood situation and seek assistance as required in consultation with the Ministry of Disaster Management.