Sri Lanka's Department of Irrigation has issued a red-level flood alert for the Kelani River Basin, warning of a major flood situation within the next 24 hours due to heavy rainfall in upper and middle catchment areas.
The Department of Irrigation has declared a red-level flood warning for the Kelani River Basin, effective until 1:30 pm on August 4th. The alert indicates that a major flood situation is likely to develop within the next 24 hours, prompted by significant high-intensity rainfall recorded across the upper and middle catchment areas of the basin.
River gauge data analyzed by the Irrigation Department suggests that water levels could rise rapidly over the coming hours, creating substantial flooding risks. Weather forecasts indicate that additional heavy showers are expected to continue, potentially accelerating the rise in river water levels. The warning specifically affects low-lying areas within three Divisional Secretariat Divisions: Dehiowita, Ruwanwella, and Yatiyanthota.
Authorities have advised residents in these regions, river users, and motorists traveling through affected areas to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant. The Irrigation Department has requested that disaster management authorities implement proactive preventive measures to minimize risks and protect vulnerable populations in the flood-prone zones.
