The water level of the Mahaweli River at Manampitiya in Polonnaruwa has reached overflowing level following torrential rains in the upper catchment areas of the country, the Assistant Director of Disaster Management in Polonnaruwa said.
He stated that due to the rising water levels, the Sungawila–Somawathiya Road in the Lankapura Divisional Secretariat Division has been completely closed to traffic as the river has overflowed onto the roadway.
Authorities have warned that continued rainfall in the upper parts of the island could further aggravate the situation.
Meanwhile, the Irrigation Department has urged residents living on both sides of the Mahaweli River to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes until floodwaters recede.