Emergency Food Relief for 45 Flood-Affected Families in Murasumottai, Kilinochchi

Access to safe shelter, food and basic household items was severely disrupted for families in Murasumoddai (KN/50) under the Kandavala Divisional Secretariat in the Kilinochchi District after continuous heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding across the Northern Province. Overflowing water bodies led to rising floodwaters entering residential areas, forcing families to evacuate their homes for safety.

In response to reports from local community leaders, Vanni Hope carried out an immediate field visit and emergency food relief intervention to support displaced families during this critical period.

Situation Overview

A total of 45 families were displaced due to the flooding in Murasumoddai and temporarily evacuated to safer locations. Floodwaters rendered many homes temporarily uninhabitable, with families reporting loss of household items and structural damage.

Access roads were partially flooded, making transportation difficult and limiting access to food and essential supplies.

Temporary Shelter Arrangements

All displaced families were accommodated at Kili / Murugananda Primary School, which served as a temporary relocation centre due to its accessibility and safety from rising water levels. While the shelter was functioning adequately, continued monitoring of sanitation, clean water availability and safety conditions was required.

Vulnerable groups identified at the shelter included young children, elderly individuals and pregnant women.

Emergency Food Relief Intervention

To address immediate food insecurity, Vanni Hope provided dry-food packages to 45 affected families, supporting 104 individuals who had been displaced by the floods. This timely assistance helped stabilise food access for families while water levels remained high and returning home was not yet possible.

Observations and Ongoing Needs

During the field visit, several ongoing challenges were identified:

• Continued food support is required until families can safely return home
• Clean drinking water and improved sanitation facilities are needed at the temporary shelter
• Increased risk of waterborne diseases if flooding continues
• Need for non-food items such as mats, blankets and hygiene kits

These needs highlight the importance of sustained humanitarian support during the recovery phase.

Continuing Support for Recovery

The emergency food relief intervention provided vital short-term assistance to 104 individuals affected by flooding in Murasumoddai. While immediate needs have been addressed, continued monitoring and additional support will be essential to ensure the safety, wellbeing and eventual return of displaced families.

If you would like to support our emergency response efforts, you can donate using the form at the bottom of this page.

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