Heavy Rains Cause Widespread Disruptions in Puttalam and Badulla

In Puttalam, the Disaster Management Unit reported significant flooding along key roadways, including the Puttalam-Colombo road, where areas such as Thiladia, Karikettiya, Madurankuliya, Kiryankalliya, and Battuluoya have been submerged. Similarly, the Puttalam-Anuradhapura road, particularly around Sirambhidiya and Haye Kanuwa, and the Puttalam-Kurunegala road, including areas like Thane Kanuwa, Galkulama, and Anamaduwa, have been heavily affected by the rising water levels. As a result, traffic across these routes has been severely disrupted.

Meanwhile, in Badulla, torrential rains have caused a rapid rise in the water levels of the Badulu Oya, flooding nearby homes and blocking roads. Areas such as Sumanatissagama, Kailagoda, Badulupitiya, Hanwella, and Deiannewela have seen flooding up to three feet deep. The rising water has caused significant damage to properties, prompting residents to move their belongings to safer areas.

The Badulla District Assistant Director of the Disaster Management Center, Mr. EML Udayakumara, confirmed that the heavy rains also led to a tree falling on the Hali Elala Katawala road, while a landslide in the Kottagoda area has obstructed the Badulla Spring Valley Road. Additionally, a landslide near the Kottagoda bridge has caused a complete standstill on the Welimada Udupussellawa road, and the Uduwara 5 post bridge was flooded, halting traffic.

Mr. Udayakumara has urged residents in the affected areas, particularly those near the Badulu Oya, to remain vigilant as the rains continue, emphasizing the importance of precautionary measures during this ongoing weather event.

Disaster Management Centre (DMC) in Sri Lanka's emergency hotline is 117.