S.P.C. Sugeeshwara, Director of Irrigation (Hydrology), stated that four spill gates of the Deduru Oya were opened last night to release 8,400 cubic metres per second due to worsening weather conditions.
With the current inclement weather, he said, water levels at gauge stations in Panadugama on the Nilwala river, Baddegama on the Gin river, and Kalawellawa (Millakanda) on the Kuda Ganga had risen to record levels.
If the heavy rains in the catchment areas continue, flash floods along the Kalu Ganga’s low-lying areas are possible.
He mentioned that several tributaries had reached minor flood stage. As a result, residents living near major rivers (Kelani and Gin) and tributary rivers should exercise extreme caution in the event of flooding.
Motorists have been advised to take alternate routes due to the possibility of flooding in the aforementioned areas.
Meanwhile, the Metrology Department reported that showers would continue in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western, and Northern provinces, as well as the districts of Anuradhapura, Galle, and Matara, due to low-level atmospheric disturbances that remained in the vicinity of the island.
Heavy rains of up to 75 mm are expected in some areas of the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western, and Northern provinces.
Several thunderstorms will strike Uva and the Eastern provinces during the evening or night.
As a result, the general public is advised to take appropriate precautionary measures to protect themselves from damage caused by squalls and lightning during thundershowers.