Srilanka, Dec. 3 -- A farmer has recounted his harrowing experience after spending nearly 24 hours clinging to the crown of a coconut tree to escape floodwaters, before being airlifted to safety by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF).

The man rushed to his land early last Friday morning after learning that his cattle were in danger when the Kala Wewa tank began overflowing and submerging his property.

The farmer managed to untie and secure a few of his cattle to a safe, non-flooded area.

However, when he returned to rescue the remaining animals, he found them barely alive, floating, and struggling to stand.

Here is his account of the ordeal:

"I got a call early in the morning saying everything was underwater and asking if the cattle were ...