RED ALERT: Major Floods Loom as Six Key Rivers Rise

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has issued a Red Alert for major floods, warning that critical flood conditions have already developed in several river basins across Sri Lanka.

The warning issued by the Irrigation Department’s Hydrology and Disaster Management Division, valid until 11:30 PM on November 29, urges immediate evacuation from low-lying areas as water levels continue to rise due to persistent heavy rainfall.

According to official readings from water level gauging stations, the following rivers are experiencing severe flooding, with conditions expected to worsen:

Mahaweli River

Deduru Oya

Maha Oya

Kala Oya

Menik Ganga

Malwathu Oya

The department warns that low-lying areas along both banks of these rivers are at high risk, and residents should move to safer locations without delay.

The statement emphasizes that people living near these rivers must remain highly vigilant and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves.

The warning comes amid continuing heavy rainfall over catchment areas, which is driving water levels to dangerous heights.

Officials caution that the situation could escalate further, posing a severe threat to lives and property.