The Mahaweli River at Peradeniya has crossed into minor flood territory following sustained heavy rainfall, while several other major rivers across Sri Lanka remain at alert levels.
The Irrigation Department confirmed Monday morning that the Mahaweli River at Peradeniya has reached minor flood level status, with water levels continuing their upward trajectory due to ongoing heavy precipitation. The department's latest hydrological assessment, issued at 6:00 a.m., indicated that conditions remain fluid across the country's river systems.
While the Mahaweli at Peradeniya has crossed the critical threshold, the same river at Nawalapitiya is holding at alert level, though water levels at that location are beginning to recede. The Kelani River has similarly reached alert status at both Kithulgala and Norwood, while the Kalu River near Ratnapura also remains elevated. Most other major river systems across the island continue to operate within normal parameters.
Authorities have issued advisories for residents in vulnerable areas, particularly those situated adjacent to river systems and in topographically low-lying zones. The Hydrology and Disaster Management Division warned that additional rainfall remains in the forecast, cautioning that rapidly changing conditions could alter river levels with minimal warning. Residents are being encouraged to maintain heightened awareness and prepare contingency measures given the unpredictable nature of current meteorological patterns.
