The Irrigation Department has urged the general public to remain vigilant as intense rainfall within short periods could trigger sudden flash floods in several parts of the country.
Director of the Hydrology and Disaster Management Division of the Irrigation Department, Engineer L. S. Sooriyabandara warned that people living near rivers and in low-lying areas, as well as motorists and other road users, should closely monitor rainfall conditions in their respective areas.
He said there is a possibility of significant rainfall over the next few days and urged the general public to pay close attention to weather forecasts and warnings issued by the Irrigation Department, the Department of Meteorology and other relevant authorities.
Providing an update on the rainfall and river conditions, Sooriyabandara said Ampara District recorded the highest rainfall during the past 24 hours, with approximately 130mm reported.
Other areas that experienced considerable rainfall included the Galle and Matara districts, particularly the Gin and Nilwala river basins, and the Kalu and Kelani rivers and the Ratnapura and Kalutara districts.
Several areas in the Kegalle, Matale and Kandy districts also recorded rainfall ranging between 50 and 100 mm, while moderate rainfall was reported across many other parts of the island.
According to the latest river water level assessments, the lower reaches of the Nilwala River continue to experience minor flood conditions, particularly in Akuressa, Malimbada and Kadduwa, although water levels are gradually receding, Engineer L. S. Sooriyabandara noted.
Minor flooding has also been reported around Baddegama and surrounding areas along the Gin River, while water levels in its upper reaches continue to decline.
The Kalu River remains at minor flood levels around Millakanda and the Kuda Ganga. Although slight increases have been observed at several locations near Kalutara, there are no indications of a major flood situation developing.
Water levels in the Kelani River remain relatively high but are gradually declining. Meanwhile, the Attanagalu Oya is close to minor flood levels, although its water levels are also receding.
A moderate rise has been observed in the Maha Oya around areas such as Badalgama, but no significant flood threat has been identified. Water levels in the Mahaweli River at Nawalapitiya and Peradeniya are also not currently at dangerous levels.
However, Sooriyabandara cautioned that intense rainfall within a very short period could lead to sudden flooding, even in areas where river water levels are not currently critical.
He cited the rainfall recorded in Ampara yesterday, where approximately 130 mm fell within just two hours, highlighting the potential danger posed by such intense downpours.
The Irrigation Department has therefore called on residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas, particularly those living close to rivers, to remain alert. Motorists have also been advised to exercise caution and stay informed about rainfall conditions.
