Severe Flooding and Overflowing Reservoirs Cause Widespread Disruptions

Authorities have opened several spillways, including at the Moragahakanda Reservoir, where 1,900 cubic feet of water per second are being released into the Ambanganga River. The 12 spillways of the Kauduluwewa, as well as spill gates at the Parakrama Samudra and Minneriya Reservoirs, have also been activated.

Notably, the Ulhitiya Rathkinda Mahaweli Twin Reservoir opened its seven gates on the morning of January 19, discharging 500 cubic feet per second into the Ulhitiya Oya. The release has caused significant flooding, submerging the Rathkinda Hobariyaya main road, and affecting areas such as Rathkinda Hobariyawa, Ulhitiya, Theldeniya Yaya, Agala Oya, and nearby rice fields.

The situation is exacerbated by the overflow of the Galenbindunuwewa and Huruluwewa lakes, inundating surrounding low-lying areas. Meanwhile, the Rajanganaya Reservoir has opened 10 spill gates, and the Angamuwa Reservoir's two spill gates are releasing water into the Kala Oya.

In Anuradhapura, the Nachchaduwa Reservoir's six spill gates have been opened to a height of 4 feet, while the Anuradhapura Irrigation Office has urged residents of low-lying areas to stay vigilant. The Malwathu Oya, which runs through the sacred city, is swollen, causing flooding and disrupting traffic on several roads.

Further complications arose with the breach of embankments at the Vilachchiya, Thanthirimala, and Dodamwila tanks, leading to the complete drainage of water and submerging more than 40 acres of paddy fields. Authorities are unable to repair the embankments until the water levels subside.

In addition, heavy rains have caused widespread damage in other areas. A tree fell on a temporary house at the Hatton Wanaraja Estate, and flooding at the Aluthpara junction on the Ragala-Udupussellawa road has disrupted traffic.

The Damana area in Ampara district has recorded the highest rainfall in the past 24 hours, surpassing 135 millimeters, contributing to further flooding concerns across the region.

As floodwaters continue to rise, authorities have advised residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate and remain on alert for additional rainfall and the possible opening of more spillways.