The University of Peradeniya has issued a flood alert as continuous heavy rainfall causes the Mahaweli River to swell, with the Irrigation Department warning of flooding risks in low-lying areas over the next 24 hours.
The University of Peradeniya has alerted its student population to exercise heightened vigilance as the Mahaweli River continues to rise following persistent rainfall. Vice Chancellor Professor Terrence Madhujith specifically cautioned students residing in university hostels situated within the Mahaweli River basin to take precautionary measures against potential flooding risks.
Heavy rainfall beginning on the evening of March 2nd has caused significant water level increases in the river. A bridge rehabilitation site near Peradeniya's 'Kalu Paalama' has already experienced inundation, with reports indicating that heavy machinery at the location has been submerged and construction materials have been swept downstream by strong currents.
The Irrigation Department has issued an official flood warning applicable to six divisional secretariat areas—Udunuwara, Udapalatha, Yatinuwara, Ganga Ihala Korale, Pasbage Korale, and Gangawata Korale. The warning, issued at 12:30 p.m. on March 3rd, remains in effect until 12:30 a.m. on March 4th. Residents in low-lying areas and near the river have been urged to remain vigilant and implement necessary safety precautions. The Department further cautioned that rainfall is expected to continue in the coming days, advising the public to maintain alertness and adhere to official safety instructions.
