The Irrigation Department has issued an amber flood alert for four areas in the Kala Oya Basin, as water levels in the Kala Oya approach flood level following significant rainfall.
The warning is valid until 11.00 a.m. tomorrow (23).
According to the Department, heavy rainfall in the upper and middle catchment areas of the Kala Oya Basin has resulted in rising water levels, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas.
The Department stated that the spill gates of the Rajanganaya Reservoir have been opened, with water currently being released into the Kala Oya at a rate exceeding 13,200 cubic feet per second (cusecs).
It further warned that the volume of water released from the reservoir could increase in the coming hours, depending on the amount of water flowing into it.
As a result, the amber flood alert has been issued for low-lying areas along the river valley and surrounding areas within the Divisional Secretariat Divisions of Rajanganaya, Nochchiyagama, Wanathawilluwa and Karuwalagaswewa.
Residents in these areas, as well as motorists and passengers travelling through the affected locations, have been urged to remain highly vigilant and exercise extreme caution.
The Irrigation Department has also requested disaster management authorities to take the necessary precautionary measures in response to the potential flood situation. (Newswire)
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