Written By: Rtr. Ruchini Arsinshani

“When the waters rose, and the lands slid, our people rose too.”

When Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka on November 28, 2025, it swept through the island with a fury unseen in over two decades. The torrential rains triggered catastrophic floods and deadly landslides that swallowed homes and uprooted lives. As the cyclone claimed the lives of 600+ people, hundreds more remain unaccounted for, while 1.7 million people are pushed into relief centers- this cyclone is considered as the deadliest environmental disaster after the tsunami that struck our country in 2004.

As the rains refused to stop, the rivers swelled into monsters, submerging houses in murky water. The headlines spoke of numbers, destruction, loss, and fear. But beneath the surface of this tragedy, there is another story emerging- one of quiet bravery, selflessness, and humanity. Amidst the chaos of this disaster, our nation witnessed something extraordinary- the rise of unsung heroes who stood between despair and survival.

Most of these heroes did not wear uniforms and were not trained professionals. But simply ordinary people like you and me, who chose compassion and refused to let their communities drown in despair.

Bringing into the spotlight today are some of those hidden warriors who stood taller above the rising waters.

The first responders weren’t professionals

Before rescue teams arrived and official updates appeared on TV screens, local youth and community members were already wading through waist-deep water in flooded neighborhoods, carrying children, women, and elderly neighbors to safety. People used boats, tractors, ropes or even their bare hands to reach others. They didn’t wait for instructions; they simply acted. Fear and exhaustion didn’t stop them or slow them down.

The forces that worked around the clock

The military, police, civil defense teams, and rescue units braved high currents and landslide-threatened hillsides to evacuate stranded families and deliver critical supplies. They reached rooftops where families waited with fading hope. Their disciplined coordination and strength saved numerous lives in terrains that were otherwise inaccessible.

Disaster response units from India, Pakistan and the UAE quickly reached Sri Lanka to provide urgent assistance and relief, displaying borderless compassion.

One of the most heartbreaking moments of the rescue operations – yet one that radiated utter heroism- was the tragedy at the Lunuwila bridge, which cost the life of a true patriot- Wing Commander Nirmal Siyambalapitiya. He had spent countless hours delivering food, medicine, and other essential relief items to stranded families. In the end, he made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down his life in the very act of protecting others.

Sri Lanka also mourned the loss of 5 Navy personnel who went missing during a flood mitigation mission. In the darkest hours of the disaster, they gave their lives in unwavering service to the nation. 

Healers who put duty over sleep

Doctors, nurses, paramedics, and even medical students travelled long distances to reach overcrowded shelters. They worked tirelessly in makeshift clinics, treating injuries, tending to those sickened by contaminated water, distributing essential medicines, and ensuring no one lacked care. Amid power outages and limited supplies, they worked through the night – not for recognition, but because they could not bear to see their fellow Sri Lankans suffer.

Volunteers who worked silently behind the scenes

In relief centers, volunteers packed dry rations, cooked meals, and sorted clothes. These volunteers formed the backbone of the rescue efforts. Despite exhaustion, they worked for long hours with firm dedication and ensured even the most isolated settlements received aid. Their presence brought not just material relief but hope for the people who had lost everything. The emergence of community kitchens is yet another testament of selfless spirit of Sri Lankans. They turned out hot meals daily for hundreds of flood victims, many of whom found themselves suddenly homeless and starving. In the middle of the chaos, these meals gave people a little taste of warmth.

Donors who gave without being seen

Beyond food, countless individuals and organisations initiated donation projects both inside the country and abroad. Fundraising campaigns flourished on social media platforms to support emergency relief and rebuilding. This solidarity that transcended borders guaranteed that relief reached where it was needed the most.

As the flood waters recede, the work of these people continues- clearing debris, rebuilding homes. The road ahead is long, but it shines bright with the courage, generosity, and unity of our people.

This article is dedicated to the people who never asked for recognition but gave it all when the country fell underwater. The combined efforts of this vast network of people remind us that disaster response is never the work of one entity alone, but the coming together of many, each playing a unique and vital role in restoring hope.

From the armed forces and police to the tireless medical teams, and every single individual who stepped forward to help- whether their contribution was immense or modest – they all became the quiet, unsung heroes of the disaster. Their hands, their hearts, and their humanity worked silently behind the scenes, holding our nation together when it needed them the most.

Thank you for your bravery, for your kindness, and for reminding us that not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes they are ordinary people with extraordinary hearts. Sri Lanka will remember your courage, even if the world doesn’t know your name. 

Graphic Design by: Rtr. Buthma Menali