September 20, Colombo (LNW): Intense rainfall across Sri Lanka has triggered a sharp rise in water levels in several major rivers and reservoirs, prompting the Irrigation Department to closely monitor conditions in vulnerable areas.
L.S. Sooriyabandara, Director of the Hydrology and Disaster Management Division of the Irrigation Department, said the wet zone had experienced a marked increase in rainfall over the past 24 hours.
According to the department, river levels are rising rapidly in the Nilwala, Gin, Kalu, Mahaweli and Kelani rivers, as well as the Attanagalu Oya. Some upper catchment areas of the Kelani and Mahaweli river systems have recorded close to 150mm of rain within 24 hours.
The Mahaweli Ganga has already reached major flood levels around Nawalapitiya, placing communities in Nawalapitiya, Peradeniya, Gampola and nearby areas on alert. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant as further rainfall could cause conditions to deteriorate.
A similar situation is developing along the Kelani Ganga, with rising water levels reported around Norwood, Kitulgala and Avissawella. People living in Avissawella, Kitulgala, Yatiyantota, Norwood and surrounding areas have been urged to closely monitor developments.
Although the Attanagalu Oya is presently experiencing what has been described as a normal rise, officials have warned that continued heavy rain could rapidly change the situation and result in flash flooding.
The Kalu Ganga has also recorded a substantial increase in water levels, particularly around Ratnapura and Millakanda, while minor flooding has already been reported in parts of the Maguru Oya basin. Communities along the Kuda Ganga, including Bulathsinhala and Palindanuwara, have likewise been asked to exercise caution.
Significant rainfall has been recorded in Ratnapura and other parts of the Kalu Ganga catchment, increasing the risk of further rises in river levels.
Further south, sections of the upper catchments of the Nilwala and Gin Ganga have received more than 100mm of rain. Water levels are consequently climbing around Thawalama, Hiniduma and Nagoda.
The Nilwala Ganga is also continuing to rise, with residents in low-lying communities around Akuressa and Pitabeddara advised to remain particularly watchful.
