(MENAFN) Severe weather conditions across Sri Lanka have resulted in 334 fatalities as of 6 p.m. local time Sunday, the nation's Disaster Management Center (DMC) reported.

The DMC confirmed that no fewer than 370 individuals remain unaccounted for, while devastating heavy rains, widespread flooding, and deadly landslides have impacted 1,118,929 people representing 309,607 families throughout the island nation.

In response to the escalating emergency, Sri Lanka's Ministry of Education declared that all universities, higher education institutions, and vocational training centers operating under its jurisdiction will suspend academic activities until Dec. 8.

The ministry justified its decision by citing widespread transportation disruptions, damaged infrastructure, and safety risks posed by the continuing adverse weather. The suspension aims to protect students and staff from hazardous travel conditions and structural dangers while rescue and relief operations continue across affected regions nationwide.

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