Colombo, Sri Lanka –
Persistent heavy rainfall has led to the opening of spill gates at several
major reservoirs, including Deduru Oya, Rathkinda Reservoirs, Polgolla
Diversion Dam, Rajanganaya Reservoir, Iranamadu Tank, Ulhitiya Reservoir, and
Parakrama Samudra. The situation has significantly increased the risk of
flooding in low-lying areas.
Flood Warnings Issued
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has issued flash flood warnings for vulnerable regions near key waterways, including:
- Mahaweli Ganga
- Deduru Oya
- Heda Oya
- Mundeni Aru
Janaka Handunpathiraja, Assistant Director of Media and Public Relations at the DMC, stated that many reservoirs across the country have reached their spill levels, raising concerns about potential downstream flooding.
Advisory for Residents
Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to:
- Remain vigilant for sudden floods and follow safety precautions.
- Stay prepared to evacuate if authorities issue orders.
- Avoid entering flood-prone areas and take all warnings seriously.
Emergency response teams are on high alert, and authorities are continuously monitoring water levels in critical waterways.
Continuous Rainfall Expected
The Sri Lanka Meteorology Department has forecasted continued rainfall in the coming days, which could exacerbate the current situation. The public is advised to stay informed through official updates and adhere to safety guidelines.
Emergency Assistance
For immediate support, residents can contact the DMC hotline at 117. Updates on weather conditions and emergency measures will be shared via local news and official channels.
Conclusion
With heavy rains persisting and reservoir levels rising, Sri Lanka faces a critical flood risk in multiple regions. Authorities and emergency response teams are actively working to manage the situation and ensure public safety. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and prioritize their safety by following evacuation and safety advisories.
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