The cyclone was the worst natural disaster to hit Sri Lanka in the last two decades. Following the government’s declaration of a nationwide state of emergency, MSF worked alongside local organisations to address people’s needs and strengthen recovery efforts.  

In the immediate aftermath, MSF distributed hundreds of hygiene kits to evacuated people in four emergency shelters in the capital, Colombo. We also delivered winter-suitable family tents and heavy-duty plastic sheets to Sri Lanka's Disaster Management Centre, to support relief efforts in colder regions.  

In the central highlands, we carried out a short-term emergency response, focused on supporting displaced communities who work on tea plantations, often on steep slopes and exposed to the elements.  

We were able to provide people with essential relief items, including warm clothing and blankets, dignity kits, comprising sanitary products and other hygiene items for women and girls, and maternity kits, which include items for both mother and newborn after delivery.

Our team restored water supply in eight locations, ensuring families had access to safe water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. We also constructed latrines, showers, and handwashing points to improve sanitation and prevent the spread of diseases.

In collaboration with local organisations, MSF trained community volunteers to conduct mental health and psychosocial support activities to help people cope with trauma and loss. Many of those we assisted had been severely affected by the cyclone, having lost their homes and living with the prospect of prolonged displacement.

Although people had begun to return home and resume their daily lives by the end of 2025, many thousands remained in need of assistance.