The Irrigation Department reports that significant rainfall has been recorded across much of the wet zone, including the districts of Galle, Matara, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Matale districts and the Western, North Western, and Sabaragamuwa Provinces.
Director of Irrigation, L. S. Sooriyabandara said that although rainfall has slightly reduced compared to previous days, showers continue.
He further said that as of this morning, the upper areas of the Kelani River received between 100 mm and 125 mm of rain, while many other river basins recorded 50 mm to 80 mm during the past 24 hours.
Heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm the previous day caused water levels in the upper reaches of the Gin River and Nilwala River to rise, creating a risk of minor flooding in Baddegama, Udugama, Akuressa, and Thalgahagoda.
The Kuda River, a tributary of the Kalu River, has also risen at Millakanda, nearing minor flood levels. Meanwhile, water levels of the Kelani River at Hanwella, Lenkos, and Avissawella remain high.
Water levels of the Mahaweli River at Nawalapitiya and Peradeniya, as well as the Attanagalu Oya, have decreased, but all rivers remain close to risk thresholds.
Sooriyabandara further noted that the total capacity of reservoirs under its management currently stands between 34% and 35%, with most reservoirs located in the dry zone where rainfall has been limited.
However, rainfall in the upper basin of the Mahaweli River has significantly raised water levels in reservoirs such as Kotmale and Polgolla.
The Director of Irrigation strongly cautioned the public against entering flooded areas for water sports or other activities, stressing that such actions are extremely dangerous. (Newswire)