The Department of Irrigation has warned of potential minor flooding in several low-lying regions of the Ratnapura District due to heavy rainfall in the Kalu River Basin.
Authorities have issued a flood alert affecting multiple divisions within the Ratnapura District following elevated water levels and persistent rainfall. The Department of Irrigation made the announcement at 2:00 p.m. on March 3rd, with the warning remaining active through 2:00 p.m. on March 4th.
According to the Department, heavy precipitation in the Kalu River Basin, combined with hydrological data collected from the agency's monitoring stations, suggests that a minor flood event could develop within hours. The warning specifically targets low-lying floodplain areas along the Kalu River across six administrative divisions: Pelmadul, Nivithigala, Ratnapura, Kuruwita, Ayagama, and Elapatha.
Residents in the affected areas have been advised to exercise caution and implement appropriate safety measures. The Department has also urged motorists and travellers passing through these zones to remain alert to changing conditions. Additionally, authorities have requested that Disaster Management agencies prepare and activate necessary precautionary protocols in response to the warning.
