EXTREME WEATHER: Kelani River water levels rising, people URGED to stay vigilant

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Department of Irrigation has warned that the water levels of the Kelani River is rising gradually following a heavy downpour on Friday (04).

An average rainfall of around 125 mm has been experienced in the upper catchment areas of the Kelani River Basin during last 24 hours ending at 9.00 am on Saturday (05), said the said the Department Irrigation.

According to the analysis on experienced rainfall and current water levels of river gauges in Kelani River, water level at Hanwella could increase up to 9.00 m and water level at Nagalagam Street could increase up to 6.60 ft within next 6 to 16 hours.

There is a high possibility of the current Flood Situation increasing in low-lying areas of the Kelani River Valley situated in Dehiovita, Ruwanwella, Seethawaka, Dompe, Homagama, Kaduwela, Biyagama, Kolonnawa and Wattala D/S Divisions.

The residents of the area and drivers of the vehicles running through those areas are requested to pay high attention in this regard.