21 major reservoirs and more than 19 medium-scale reservoirs across the country are currently spilling, the Irrigation Department said.
According to Irrigation Director (Water Management) Engineer H.M.D.P.S.D. Herath, the situation was reported as of 6.00 a.m. today (15).
Among the major reservoirs releasing water are Rajanganaya, Nachchaduwa and Yan Oya in Anuradhapura; Ambewela in Badulla; Lunugamvehera, Tissa Wewa, Weerawila Yoda Wewa, and Weheragala in Hambantota; Ambakola Wewa, Usgala Siyambalangamuwa, Mediyaya, Magalla, and Deduru Oya in Kurunegala; Nalanda and Wemedilla in Kandy; Hadapanagala and Alikota Ara in Monaragala; Inginimitiya and Thabbowa in Puttalam; and Yoda Wewa in Mannar.
By this morning, sluice gates at several reservoirs had been opened to release large volumes of water. Rajanganaya reservoir opened two gates three feet each, discharging over 1,600 cubic feet per second into the Kala Oya.
Lunugamvehera released more than 1,740 cubic feet per second into the Kirindi Oya, while Weheragala discharged over 700 cubic feet per second into the Manik Ganga. Alikota Ara released over 680 cubic feet per second into the Kirindi Oya, and Deduru Oya released 1,400 cubic feet per second.
At Thabbowa, twelve sluice gates were opened by 6.15 a.m., while Yan Oya reservoir had three gates opened at varying levels.
The Irrigation Department has cautioned residents in low‑lying areas and those living near rivers to remain alert and act with care, as rising water levels could pose risks to communities downstream. (Newswire)