Flood and landslide warnings issued as heavy rain hits several districts

The Irrigation Department has warned of a risk of major flooding in low-lying areas along the Mahaweli River following heavy rainfall in the upper catchment.

The warning applies particularly to low-lying areas near the river in the Pasbage Korale Divisional Secretariat Division.

Residents and motorists using roads in the affected areas have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautions against possible flooding.

Meanwhile, the National Building Research Organisation has updated landslide warnings for several districts.

Level 2 warnings, requiring increased vigilance, are in force for Nagoda and Neluwa in Galle; Pasbage Korale and Ganga Ihala Korale in Kandy; Yatiyantota, Dehiowita and Deraniyagala in Kegalle; Pitabeddara in Matara; Kotmale and Kotmale East in Nuwara Eliya; Ayagama, Pelmadulla, Ratnapura, Kuruwita, Nivithigala and Eheliyagoda in Ratnapura; and Palindanuwara, Walallawita, Agalawatta and Bulathsinhala in Kalutara.

Level 1 warnings have been issued for Seethawaka in Colombo; Ingiriya in Kalutara; Ruwanwella, Warakapola, Aranayake and Bulathkohupitiya in Kegalle; Kotapola and Akuressa in Matara; Kiriella and Kalawana in Ratnapura; and Thawalama in Galle.

The landslide warnings are valid from 10 a.m. on Sunday until 10 a.m. on Monday.

The Department of Meteorology has also issued an advisory for severe lightning in the Uva and Eastern provinces and in Mullaitivu, Vavuniya and Polonnaruwa districts.

Thunderstorms accompanied by intense lightning are likely in these areas during the evening or night, with temporary strong winds also possible.

The public has been advised to take precautions to minimise the risk of lightning-related accidents.