Water levels in several river basin rising – Public urged to remain cautious

Flood warnings issued for residents of low-lying areas of the Maha Oya and Deduru Oya river basins remain in effect, according to the Department of Irrigation.

The Director of Irrigation (Hydrology and Disaster Management), L.S. Sooriyabandara stated that due to the prevailing heavy rainfall, water levels in several river basins have risen significantly.

He further noted that Baddegama and surrounding areas have received considerable rainfall, with Baddegama recording the highest rainfall at 172 mm.

Director Sooriyabandara also said that significant rainfall is being recorded in areas around the Attanagalu Oya, Kirindi Oya, Kalu and Kelani rivers.

Accordingly, he warned that rainfall may continue to increase in the Kelani, Kalu, Gin, Attanagalu, and Nilwala river basins and disaster situations may arise in low-lying areas of these regions.

Meanwhile, a significant rise in the water levels has also been recorded in the Kirindi Oya and Lunugamvehera reservoirs, the Director added.