The Irrigation Department has issued a flood warning for several low-lying areas along the Kala Oya following heavy rainfall in the upper and middle catchment areas of the river basin.
According to the Department, the water level of the Kala Oya is approaching flood level, while the spill gates of the Rajanganaya Reservoir have been opened, releasing water into the river at a rate exceeding 13,200 cubic feet per second (cusecs).
The Department has warned that the rate of water release could be increased further in the coming hours, depending on the volume of water flowing into the reservoir.
The warning covers the lower reaches of the Kala Oya river valley and adjoining low-lying areas within the Rajanganaya, Nochchiyagama, Wanathawilluwa and Karuwalagaswewa Divisional Secretariat Divisions.
Residents in the affected areas, along with drivers and passengers travelling through these locations, have been urged to remain highly vigilant and exercise extreme caution due to the risk of flooding.
The Irrigation Department has also requested Disaster Management authorities to take the necessary precautionary measures in response to the developing situation.
