Sri Lanka is struggling with deadly landslides and floods that have killed more than 40 people and disrupted major roads and train services. Passenger trains were halted, and several major roads were closed, officials said on Thursday.

The government’s disaster management center reported that 25 deaths occurred in the central province, mainly in the tea-growing districts of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya, located about 300 kilometres (186 miles) east of Colombo.

Officials said 21 people remain missing in the same region after multiple landslides struck the hilly areas. Another 10 people suffered injuries.

Heavy rain causes widespread damage

Sri Lanka has been battling severe weather since last week. Heavy downpours over the weekend made the situation worse, flooding homes, farmland, and key roads. The country is going through a rough few days, with a massive cyclone hitting even the inland areas—likely for the first time in its history. Heavy rain has triggered flooding and landslides in many regions. Cyclone Ditwah made the situation even worse.

Reservoirs and rivers have overflowed, cutting off several routes. Authorities confirmed that some major inter-provincial roads are temporarily closed.

Trains suspended as tracks collapse

Officials also stopped train services in parts of the mountainous region. Rocks, mud and fallen trees slid onto railway tracks, making travel dangerous. Local television showed workers clearing large piles of debris. In some locations, floodwaters have submerged the tracks.

Rescue operations intensify

Television footage showed an air force helicopter rescuing three people trapped on the roof of a house surrounded by floodwater. Navy and police teams used boats to move stranded residents to safer areas.

Another video showed a car being swept away by strong flood currents near the eastern town of Ampara, about 410 kilometres (256 miles) east of Colombo. The disaster left three passengers dead.