December 12, Colombo (LNW): The Irrigation Department has reported substantial rainfall across several river catchments over the past day, with a number of basins recording in excess of 50 millimetres.
According to Eng. L. S. Sooriyabandara, who heads Hydrology and Disaster Management, the heaviest precipitation was observed in the upper sections of the Gin, Kalu, and Kelani rivers, as well as the Yan Oya basin. Parts of the Batticaloa District also experienced similarly intense showers.
While water levels in a few rivers have climbed noticeably as a result, authorities say they remain comfortably below thresholds that would trigger flooding. Even so, engineers are monitoring the situation closely, given the continuing unsettled weather.
Nearly three dozen major reservoirs are currently at capacity and spilling. To ease pressure and maintain safe operating levels, spill gates are to be opened at several key reservoirs, including Deduru Oya, Rajanganaya, Nachchaduwa, Yan Oya, Padaviya, Lunugamvehera, and Senanayake Samudraya.
Officials emphasise that these controlled releases are routine measures taken during periods of sustained rainfall to prevent structural strain and ensure downstream safety.
