Kelani River Flood Alert: Irrigation Director Explains Current Risks

Mr. L.S. Sooriyabandara, Director of Irrigation at the Hydrological Disaster Management Centre,
has issued a report on the flood situation as of today, November 30th, and specifically provided a preliminary update on the flood situation in the Kelani River.
His statement is below

"Currently, the water level in the Hanwella area has reached a maximum of 10.8 meters. According to our observations, there is a high probability that 10.8 meters will be the maximum water level for Hanwella.

Similarly, the water level in Nagalagam Street has risen to approximately 7 feet. Due to this, it appears that as the water in the Kelani River flows from upstream to downstream, and with the Hanwella water level reaching its maximum, there is a possibility of further water level increases in the intermediate areas. Therefore, the flood situation is likely to persist as water continues to enter areas currently inundated downstream from Hanwella, as well as adjacent low-lying areas. We wish to inform the residents in those areas that there is a risk of the water level rising by several more feet. Due to this situation, we are receiving reports that water has already entered many locations near the Kelani River, especially in areas close to Colombo, as well as in Kelaniya and Biyagama. Therefore, we urge the residents in those areas to remain vigilant, as the current water levels near the Kelani River are likely to rise further.

Furthermore, regarding the water levels of the Attanagalu Oya, the water level at our gauges in Doonamale is still at a 'major flood' level. Therefore, as water levels are likely to rise further in downstream areas such as Gampaha, Ja-Ela, Wattala, and Kandana, we urge residents in those areas and adjacent low-lying lands to pay special attention to this.

In addition, the water level at Badalgama in the Maha Oya reservoir is still at an 'extreme major flood' level. Due to this situation, the flood condition could further worsen and water levels could rise in areas downstream up to Negombo and in low-lying areas, as water continues to enter them. We kindly request everyone to be cautious regarding this.

Furthermore, water from the upper reaches of the Mahaweli River is currently spread across low-lying areas. Although the water level in the Manampitiya area has gradually decreased, water is currently entering and spreading in areas downstream towards Trincomalee, especially in areas including Mavil Aru, Kinniya, and Muttur.

Therefore, there is a risk of water levels rising further in those areas, with the potential to reach a significant height. In these areas, particularly regarding the much-discussed Mavil Aru flood bunds breaking, it has been impossible even to deploy motorcycle teams to investigate due to the prevailing water levels. However, whether the bunds have broken or not, floods have already spread significantly, covering those areas.

Therefore, without disregarding this situation, residents in downstream areas, especially Kinniya, Muttur, and Suriyapura, must pay attention as water levels are rising and water is flowing through these areas. We expect to provide further details on the prevailing conditions in this area in the future.

Overall, while water levels in many river basins remain at normal levels, considering the Kalu River; although we haven't paid much attention to water level increases until now, it appears that water levels at our measuring station in Putupaula, located in the lowest areas of the Kalu River, are currently approaching a 'minor flood' condition. Specifically, with high water levels in areas like Ratnapura and Millakanda yesterday and the day before, there is now an emerging risk of a minor flood situation in the low-lying areas near Kalutara as that water flows downstream.

Therefore, we anticipate a further increase in these flood conditions in the future. However, we do not expect a large and rapid rise in water levels. Under such circumstances, although water levels in the upper parts of many river basins have decreased, the water in the lower basins has not yet receded. Moreover, even in areas where water levels are decreasing, the situation remains at a dangerous level.

Therefore, we request everyone to understand that the dangers that can arise when water levels recede are similar to the dangers that arise when water levels rise.

Therefore, we emphasize that merely seeing water levels recede does not mean it is safe to swim, play, or engage in other activities in those areas, and using submerged roads or similar locations to visit those areas when water levels are low is extremely dangerous. This is because there could be extensive unseen damage in these areas. This was a massive flood.

Therefore, since many bridges and roads have been extensively damaged, using these roads is extremely dangerous until they are properly repaired. Also, do not enter the receding water or engage in activities like fishing.

Such actions could lead to loss of life. Therefore, we request everyone to act responsibly as citizens, considering this as the final phase of the disaster, to prevent further loss of life or calamities, and to manage the situation safely. Therefore, we kindly request everyone's responsible cooperation at this time."