October 21, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Irrigation has urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert, as flood warnings remain in place for several river basins following days of persistent heavy rainfall across parts of the country.
The public, especially those living near rivers and reservoirs, have been advised to take precautionary measures as water levels continue to rise.
L.S. Sooriyabandara, Director of Hydrology and Disaster Management at the Department, stated that river systems such as the Maha Oya and Deduru Oya are currently experiencing high water volumes, raising concerns of possible flooding in adjacent low-lying regions. These alerts are expected to remain in effect until conditions begin to stabilise.
Among the areas most affected by the current weather conditions is Baddegama, which recorded the highest rainfall with 172 millimetres in a 24-hour period. The situation is particularly concerning in zones surrounding several key river basins, including the Kelani, Kalu, Gin, Attanagalu Oya, and Nilwala rivers. Ongoing rainfall in these catchment areas could lead to further complications if it persists.
Director Sooriyabandara also highlighted increased water inflows into the Kirindi Oya and Lunugamvehera reservoirs, noting that rising reservoir levels could further intensify the risk downstream, especially if additional rainfall necessitates water release.
Officials have advised local authorities to be on high alert and have urged the public to follow guidance issued by disaster management units and remain informed through official weather updates.
