Minor flooding has developed in Ratnapura and Nawalapitiya as water levels in the Kalu Ganga and Mahaweli River continue to rise, said L. S. Sooriyabandara, the Director of the Hydrology and Disaster Management Division of the Department of Irrigation.

Sooriyabandara also stated that adjustments may be necessary to the opening levels of spill gates at several reservoirs, including Deduru Oya, Rajanganaya, Tabbowa and Inginimitiya.

He made these remarks while addressing a special media briefing held today (26) to provide updates on the prevailing adverse weather conditions.

According to Sooriyabandara, rising water levels in the Kalu Ganga have led to minor flooding in Ratnapura and downstream areas.

Meanwhile, rainfall in Nawalapitiya has caused water levels near the Mahaweli River in the area to rise, resulting in minor flooding.

However, no flood-level conditions have been reported so far in downstream areas along the Mahaweli River, including Peradeniya and Gampola.

He further noted that water levels in the Kelani River and the Attanagalu Oya are also gradually increasing. As a result, there is a possibility that some low-lying areas in Gampaha could become inundated.

“Depending on rainfall patterns, we may need to adjust the extent to which reservoir spill gates are opened. People living near the Deduru Oya, Rajanganaya, Inginimitiya and Tabbowa reservoirs should remain vigilant.

“Rainfall recorded in the Mannar and Jaffna districts has occurred over a short period. Therefore, many low-lying areas could become inundated rapidly,” he said.

Residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas are advised to remain alert and follow official updates from the relevant authorities.