Flood alert issued for Southern SL as Nilwala River water levels rise
By: Isuru Parakrama
October 24, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Irrigation has announced a flood warning for several low-lying areas in the southern region of Sri Lanka, which will remain in effect for the next 48 hours.
This alert follows a significant increase in water levels of the Nilwala River due to continuous heavy rainfall in the region.
The areas most at risk include Pasgoda, Kotapola, Pitabeddara, Akuressa, Athuraliya, Malimbada, Thihagoda, Kamburupitiya, Matara, and Devinuwara, with the divisional secretariats in these regions advised to prepare for potential flooding.
The department has urged residents in these flood-prone zones to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Local authorities have been placed on alert, with emergency response teams ready to assist should the situation escalate.
Residents are advised to stay updated on weather reports and avoid travelling to affected areas unless necessary.
In addition to the immediate threat of rising water levels, heavy rains are expected to continue in the coming days, further heightening concerns about potential landslides in hilly regions. Local communities are being encouraged to relocate to safer areas if floodwaters continue to rise.
Authorities have also warned that road access in and around these areas could become severely restricted, urging travellers to plan their routes carefully and avoid areas that are prone to flash flooding.
