The Mahaweli Authority has announced that the spillway and sluice gates of the Kotmale Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir are being opened in sequence from 3:00 pm today to safeguard the reservoir and manage potential major flood conditions downstream.
It is reported that the move follows heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, with about 250 cubic feet of water per second expected to be released into the Kotmale Oya.
The Authority warned of flood risks in low‑lying areas downstream of the Kotmale Oya, including Nugawela, Riverside, and Mawathura, as well as along the Mahaweli River from Ulapane through Gampola, Waligalla, Gelioya, Peradeniya, Katugastota, and Polgolla.
Residents in these regions have been urged to remain highly vigilant and take necessary precautions as water levels rise. (Newswire)