The Department of Irrigation has issued a Red Alert warning of a major flood situation in low-lying areas along the Mahaweli River over the next 48 hours.
The warning will remain in effect until 1:00 p.m. on August 5.
According to the Department, the alert has been issued due to heavy rainfall received in the upper catchment areas of the Mahaweli River, forecasts of additional rainfall, and the potential risk associated with the opening of spill gates at the Kotmale Reservoir.
The flood warning covers low-lying areas along the Mahaweli River within the Divisional Secretariat divisions of Udadumbara, Udapalatha, Yatinuwara, Doluwa, Kotmale, Pasmaha Oya, Ganga Ihala Korale, Pambagaha Korale, Gangawata Korale, Harispattuwa, and Pathadumbara.
The Department has urged residents living in low-lying areas near the Mahaweli River to remain on high alert, closely monitor official updates, and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property from possible flooding.
