Heavy rainfall has caused water levels in Sri Lanka's major rivers to rise significantly, with the Mahaweli Ganga exceeding dangerous thresholds at two key monitoring stations.
Several of Sri Lanka's principal river systems have experienced substantial water level increases following sustained heavy rainfall across the country. The Mahaweli Ganga, the nation's longest river, has reached major flood levels at two critical monitoring points, according to river data released by authorities on Monday afternoon.
Recordings taken at 3:30 pm showed the Peradeniya gauging station measuring 9.20 metres, surpassing the major flood threshold of 9 metres. Meanwhile, the Nawalapitiya station registered 7.85 metres, also exceeding its major flood level of 6 metres. These elevations represent a significant jump from normal operating ranges and indicate serious flooding risk in central regions along the Mahaweli corridor.
Beyond the Mahaweli system, minor flood conditions have developed at multiple other locations. The Kelani Ganga at Kithulgala, Gurugoda Oya at Holombuwa, Seethawaka Ganga at Deraniyagala, Kehelgamu Oya at Norwood, and Kalu Ganga at Ratnapura have all reported water levels approaching or exceeding minor flood thresholds. Authorities noted that conditions remain fluid, with some river levels beginning to recede while others continue climbing.
Official bodies have advised residents in riverside communities and low-lying areas to exercise heightened vigilance as rainfall persists. The ongoing precipitation raises concerns about potential further escalation in water levels, particularly in central and southwestern regions where multiple river systems converge.
