The Meteorology Department forecasts continued heavy showers across Sri Lanka's central regions, with the Southwest Monsoon system bringing rainfall exceeding 75mm to vulnerable areas. Multiple landslide warnings remain in effect despite some river flood alerts being lifted.
The Department of Meteorology has indicated that heavy rainfall will persist across Sri Lanka's southwestern and central regions. According to Merril Mendis, Director of Forecasting at the MET Department, showers are expected to intensify again from tomorrow, with the Southwest Monsoon system now active over the island. Rainfall of 50-75mm is anticipated in Sabaragamuwa Province as well as the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts today, with some locations potentially experiencing even heavier precipitation exceeding 75mm.
River management authorities remain vigilant as water levels in key waterways remain elevated. The Department of Irrigation reported that the Mahaweli River between Peradeniya and Nawalapitiya continues to operate at alert level. In response, three spillway gates at the Kotmale Reservoir are scheduled for reopening at 7:00 a.m. today to manage water discharge. The flood warnings previously issued for the Kelani and Kalu river basins were lifted yesterday afternoon, indicating some improvement in those areas.
Despite improvements in river conditions, landslide risks remain a significant concern across the highlands. Red-level landslide warnings are currently in effect for six Divisional Secretariat divisions: Ududumbara, Ganga Ihala Korale, and Pasbage Korale in Kandy District; Yatiyantota in Kegalle District; and Ambagamuwa and Norwood in Nuwara Eliya District. In response to hazardous conditions, all schools in the Hatton Education Zone have been ordered to remain closed today, while schools in other areas of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts are expected to operate normally.
