Heavy rains have caused water levels in the Kalu, Gin, and Nilwala rivers to rise significantly, prompting warnings from the Irrigation Department.
Irrigation Engineer Sakura Dilthara of the department’s Hydrology and Disaster Management Unit urged residents on both sides of the rivers to exercise extreme caution.
Welipenna in Mathugama has been the hardest hit by the downpour, with around 30 houses already flooded.
Agalawatta, Mathugama recorded the highest rainfall in the country over the past 24 hours, receiving a staggering 264.5 mm.
Kalutara District Disaster Management Assistant Director Lt. Col. Prashantha Perera reported that Barallavita, Matugama received 240 mm of rain in the same 24-hour period ending at 8:30 am this morning.
This excessive rainfall has led to flooding on several roads in Matugama and Avitthava.
Accumulated rainwater has also caused obstructions on roads including Matugama-Kalutara road.
The Department of Meteorology has issued a warning for potential heavy rain across the southwestern part of the island.
Areas likely to be affected include the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces, along with parts of the Galle, Matara, and Nuwara Eliya districts.
These areas can expect rainfall exceeding 100 mm, accompanied by possible thunderstorms and strong winds.
The department advises residents to take necessary precautions to avoid dangers associated with strong winds and lightning.
Landslide warnings remain in effect for a total of seven districts due to the ongoing heavy rains.
