By: Shelby Washington
In late November and early December 2025, Sri Lanka and southern India were struck by Cyclone Ditwah, a catastrophic tropical storm that caused severe flooding and landslides across the area. At the same time, Cyclone Senyar brought heavy rainfall to Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, intensifying already dangerous conditions.
From the earliest hours of the disaster, Lions were on the ground, mobilizing their nationwide networks to reach affected families. Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) moved quickly to support these efforts of immediate relief and longer-term recovery through Disaster Relief Grants.
Sri Lanka was among the hardest hit. More than 1.5 million people were affected, with over 600 lives lost and approximately 232,000 people displaced to safety centres. Damage across the country is estimated to exceed US$1.6 billion. To support the response, LCIF approved a US$300,000 Major Catastrophe Grant for Sri Lanka, helping Lions provide emergency relief, clean water, food, medical supplies, and shelter support to families who had lost nearly everything.Council Chairperson Lion Shyana Jayalath says, “Cyclone Ditwah has tested the resilience of the nation, but it has also revealed the unwavering dedication of our volunteers. Lions remain steadfast in their mission: to restore dignity, stability, and hope to every family impacted by this disaster.”
As floodwaters slowly recede, Lions in Sri Lanka are focused on the second phase of recovery. Council Chairperson Lion Shyana Jayalath explains, “Many homes, schools and community spaces remain covered in mud and debris, and sanitation threats are emerging. Lions are providing cleaning support, disinfecting and sanitizing living spaces, and helping families prepare to return home safely. We will continue to assist those in the safety centres ensuring they receive ongoing supplies of food, clothing, medicines and hygiene items.”
In Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, Cyclone Senyar brought torrential rainfall affecting more than 1.2 million households, with over 1,300 deaths reported, and more than 200,000 people displaced. LCIF supported relief efforts in Thailand with a US$100,000 Major Catastrophe Grant, allowing Lions to distribute emergency relief bags, provide clean drinking water and support temporary shelters for displaced families.
Reflecting on the devastation, Past International Director Somsakdi Lovisuth of Thailand shared, “It was a deeply moving experience. Seeing the destruction firsthand and meeting families who had lost everything was a powerful reminder of how important our service truly is. Their gratitude strengthened my commitment as a Lion to stand with our communities in their time of need.”
Indonesia suffered through devastating effects from Cyclone Senyar, particularly on Sumatra, where more than 900 lives were lost, 226 people remain missing, and over 7,000 were injured. LCIF approved an additional US$100,000 Major Catastrophe Grant to support Lions’ emergency response, including medical assistance, food distribution and support for displaced families.
With LCIF disaster relief grants, Lions can do amazing things for communities devastated by hurricanes, floods, fires and other major events.
Learn more about our variety of disaster relief grants.