The disaster has claimed 479 lives and affected more than 1.6 million people including 480,000 families, according to the latest figures from Sri Lanka, said the Consul General.

“The severity of these adverse weather conditions is something we simply cannot afford to face. The damage is truly devastating,” Silva explained.

Two-phase recovery approach

Gunasekera outlined a comprehensive strategy to address the crisis. The first phase focuses on immediate humanitarian relief, while the second phase tackles reconstruction.

"Second phase is the rebuilding the country’s infrastructure, especially roads, railway tracks and even agrarian system," he said.

The Sri Lankan government has estimated that approximately $8 billion will be needed for reconstruction following the cyclone's impact on agriculture, transportation networks and water systems, he revealed.

Protecting livelihoods

Beyond immediate relief, Gunasekera urged the international community to maintain economic ties with Sri Lanka to prevent further damage to livelihoods. He specifically called on tourists not to cancel their plans.

"We urge people who have already booked to visit Sri Lanka’s tourism sector not to cancel their plan because now the weather is okay, and the southern province is already not affected that much," he said.

He also encouraged continued imports from Sri Lanka and increased foreign investment to help stabilise the economy, which only recently emerged from a severe economic crisis two and a half years ago. “The government had been working towards attracting 3.5 million tourists by 2030 and increasing exports from $18 billion to $36 billion,” the Consul General pointed out.

How to contribute

People wishing to donate relief goods can deliver them to the Sri Lankan Consulate on Al Mankhool Road in Satwa, during the extended operating hours until December 7. The mission has published a list of 46 essential items needed on its social media platforms and website. Only the listed items will be accepted.

For financial contributions, donors can either deposit directly to accounts following Sri Lankan Central Bank guidelines, hand over contributions at the consulate office, or deposit to the mission's general accounts for onward transfer.

"We really need to focus more on the rebuilding efforts of the country because, there's been a lot of damage to the infrastructure, water supply, and there's lot to rebuild. So now we seek more financial assistance from our well-wishers and the community," Silva said.

Climate scientists expect to see catastrophic changes