May 15, Colombo (LNW): Persistent rainfall across several parts of Sri Lanka has pushed water levels in many reservoirs beyond capacity, prompting authorities to issue fresh warnings to residents living near rivers and low-lying areas.
The Department of Irrigation confirmed that more than 21 major reservoirs and over 19 medium-sized tanks under its supervision are currently spilling due to the continuing wet weather.
Director of Irrigation for Water Management, H. M. P. S. D. Herath, stated that reservoir levels had risen significantly overnight following intense rainfall recorded in multiple catchment areas.
Among the major reservoirs currently overflowing are Rajanganaya, Nachchaduwa and Yan Oya in the Anuradhapura District, while Lunugamvehera, Weheragala, Tissa Wewa and Weerawila Yoda Wewa in the Hambantota District have also reached spill level.
Several reservoirs in Kurunegala, Puttalam, Monaragala, Kandy and Mannar districts are similarly discharging excess water after reaching critical storage capacity.
Authorities noted that controlled water releases are now underway at several key reservoirs to manage pressure on dam structures and reduce the risk of sudden flooding downstream.
At the Rajanganaya Reservoir, two spill gates were opened early this morning, sending a large volume of water into the Kala Oya. Significant releases were also reported from Lunugamvehera and Weheragala reservoirs into the Kirindi Oya and Menik Ganga respectively.
Meanwhile, the Tabbowa and Inginimitiya reservoirs in the North Western Province recorded some of the largest water discharges, with thousands of cubic feet of water being released into the Mi Oya following the opening of multiple spill gates.
The Deduru Oya Reservoir has also begun releasing water after spill gates were partially opened to ease rising water levels.
Irrigation officials warned that river levels downstream of several reservoirs could rise rapidly if heavy rains continue over the next few days. Residents living along riverbanks and in flood-prone areas have therefore been urged to remain alert and follow instructions issued by local authorities and disaster management teams.
The current weather conditions have already led to flooding and landslide concerns in several districts, with emergency services remaining on standby as the south-west monsoon continues to intensify across the island.
