Minor Flood Warning Issued Along Mahaweli River: Landslide Evacuations Issued In Four Districts

COLOMBO (News 1st) - A minor flood warning has been issued for the next 24 hours for low-lying areas near the Mahaweli River within the Kinniya, Mutur, Seruwila, Welikanda, Lankapura, Thamankaduwa, and Dimbulagala Divisional Secretariat Divisions due to the heavy rainfall experienced since last night.

Minor flood can also be experienced in Gallella on the Batticaloa-Polonnaruwa road, The access road to the Somawathiya Rajamaha Vihara and Surrounding areas of the Somawathiya Temple.

The Department of Irrigation advised devotees planning to visit the temple to remain cautious over the upcoming days. 

Residents living near the Mahaweli River in these regions are also advised to remain cautious. 

Furthermore, Department of Irrigation noted that the Kalu, Nilwala, and Mahaweli rivers are currently at "Alert" levels from Ratnapura,Thalgahagoda/Urawa and Manampitiya area.

Meanwhile, Evacuation notices have been issued for landslides in 16 Divisional Secretariat Divisions across the Kandy, Kegalle, Matale, and Ratnapura districts.

The Department of Meteorology says that showers or thundershowers are expected in many parts of the island after 1:00 PM with heavy rains exceeding 100 mm may occur in some areas due to a lower atmospheric disturbance near the country.

Showers during morning hours can be expected in the Western and North-Western provinces, as well as the Mullaitivu district.

The public is advised to take necessary precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.