December 22, Colombo (LNW): Irrigation officials have moved to reassure the public that there is no immediate flood threat, even though water levels in parts of the Mahaweli river system remain above average following recent rainfall.
According to the Department of Irrigation, the Manampitiya River, which feeds into the Mahaweli, is currently running high but shows no signs of escalating into a flood situation. Director of Irrigation in charge of Hydrology and Disaster Management, L. S. Sooriyabandara, said controlled water releases are taking place as a routine safety measure, with sluice gates opened at several reservoirs within the Mahaweli basin.
He noted that while the Thanthirimale Reservoir in Anuradhapura District has recorded increased water levels, conditions remain stable and do not suggest a heightened flood risk. Monitoring teams continue to track inflows and outflows to ensure water is managed gradually and safely.
Rainfall over the past 24 hours has been relatively moderate, with the highest figure recorded in Ampara District at 25 millimetres. Officials said this amount is insufficient to trigger sudden rises in river levels but will continue to be closely observed if further rain develops.
At present, spill gates at 36 major reservoirs managed by the Department of Irrigation have been opened to regulate excess water. However, authorities emphasised that discharge levels are well within safe limits. In addition, 52 medium-scale reservoirs are also releasing water in a controlled manner, with no danger posed to communities living near rivers or in low-lying areas.
The department stressed that ongoing surveillance and timely adjustments are in place to prevent any unexpected flooding, and the public has been advised to remain calm while staying alert to official updates.
