The Irrigation Department of Sri Lanka says nearly 300 mm of rainfall has been recorded in the upper catchment areas of the Kelani River Basin.
Based on current weather conditions and hydrological data collected from gauging stations within the river basin, the Department has warned that a minor flood situation could develop within the next 24 hours in low-lying areas of the Kelani River valley.
The warning applies to the following Divisional Secretariat Divisions:
- Ruwanwella
- Seethawaka
- Dompe
- Dehiovita
- Eheliyagoda
- Yatiyantota
- Bulathkohupitiya
Residents living in these areas, along with motorists travelling through flood-prone locations, have been advised to exercise extreme caution.
The Department further warned that if heavy rainfall continues, flooding could also spread to downstream low-lying areas of the Kelani River valley beyond Hanwella.
Disaster management authorities have been requested to take the necessary precautionary measures in response to the situation.
