Disasters like those in Nepal could also occur in this country, even on a small scale.

Former Senior Professor Athula Senaratne of the Department of Geology and Geophysics at the University of Peradeniya states that there is a high risk of natural disasters similar to the tragedy in Nepal occurring in Sri Lanka at any moment, even on a smaller scale. He points out that local disaster management authorities should learn direct lessons from such catastrophic situations occurring in foreign countries.

The tragic landslide reported from the Sarasavigama area during the 'Ditwa' cyclone that occurred in the past can be cited as a prime example. The landslide blocked a major canal in the area, and the subsequent accumulation of water submerged the entire village, claiming the lives of over twenty people.

There is a possibility of waterways being suddenly blocked due to landslides involving decayed rocks and large soil layers found near rivers and streams. When such massive accumulated water suddenly breaks through blockages and flows into low-lying areas, it creates highly destructive flash floods at unexpected moments.

Just as normal landslide risk zones are identified and mapped, locations where waterways could be blocked and thus cause flash floods should also be urgently mapped. By properly establishing early warning systems, it is possible to prevent loss of life and property damage from future disasters similar to the Sarasavigama incident.