The Irrigation Department has warned that a major flood situation is likely to occur within the next 48 hours in low-lying areas along the Mahaweli River.
Due to the rainfall received in the upper catchment areas of the Mahaweli River over the past few hours, forecasts of further rainfall, and the possibility of opening the spillway gates of the Kotmale Reservoir, there is a risk of a major flood situation developing within the next 48 hours, it said.
This warning applies to low-lying areas along the Mahaweli River within the following Divisional Secretariat Divisions:
Udunuwara
Udapalatha
Yatinuwara
Doluwa
Kothmale
Pasbage
Ganga Ihala Korale
Pasbage Korale
Gangawata Korale
Harispattuwa
Pathadumbara
Residents living in low-lying areas adjacent to the Mahaweli River in these regions are strongly advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from a possible flood situation.
Disaster management authorities have been requested to take necessary precautionary measures in this regard.
As further rainfall is expected, the general public is urged to exercise extreme caution and remain alert to the developing situation.
