Heavy rainfall in the upper and midstream areas of Malwathu Oya as of 4:00 PM today ( January 19) has caused the Nachchaduwa Reservoir to spill at a rate of 3,700 cubic feet per second.
A major flood is likely in low-lying areas of Vengalacheddikulam, Madu, Mussalei, and Nanaddan Divisional Secretariat Divisions (DSDs), the department warned. Roads in these areas are already inundated and could become highly dangerous for travel.
Residents and motorists are urged to exercise caution, and disaster management authorities are requested to take necessary precautions to reduce the risks.