# Flood Warning for Attanagalu Oya and Kelani River Basins as Water Levels Rise

- Link: https://www.weather.lk/flood-warning-for-attanagalu-oya-and-kelani-river-basins-as-water-levels-rise/
- Published: 2026-10-26T21:06:05+05:30
- Author: WeatherLK

Heavy rainfall in the upper and middle catchment areas of the Attanagalu Oya and
Kelani River basins has raised concerns about possible flooding in several low-lying
areas of Sri Lanka, according to the information provided in the flood notices.

## Flood Risk in Attanagalu Oya and Uruwal Oya Valleys

The water level of Attanagalu Oya is rising due to significant rainfall in its upper
and middle catchment areas, together with the commencement of water releases through
the spill gates of the Basnagoda Reservoir.

Based on rainfall conditions and water-level measurements at river gauging stations
maintained by the Department of Irrigation, there is a risk of flooding in low-lying
areas of the Attanagalu Oya and Uruwal Oya valleys.

The areas identified in the notice include the Divisional Secretariat Divisions 
of **Divulapitiya, Mirigama, Attanagalla, Mahara, Gampaha, Minuwangoda, Ja-Ela, 
Katana and Wattala**.

Residents in these areas, particularly those living close to riverbanks and flood-
prone locations, are advised to remain alert. Motorists travelling along roads in
affected areas should also exercise extreme caution.

## Minor Flood Risk in the Kelani River Valley

Significant rainfall has also been recorded in the upper catchment areas of the 
Kelani River Basin. An assessment of prevailing rainfall conditions and river water
levels indicates a risk of **minor flooding within the next 24 hours from the time
stated in the notice** in low-lying areas of the Kelani River Valley.

The Divisional Secretariat Divisions identified in the notice are **Ruwanwella, 
Seethawaka, Dompe, Dehiowita, Eheliyagoda, Yatiyantota and Bulathkohupitiya**.

The notice further states that continued heavy rainfall could cause the flood situation
to affect low-lying areas downstream of Hanwella. Therefore, people living in vulnerable
locations should closely monitor changing river conditions and follow official instructions.

## Public Safety Advice

Residents in the identified areas are urged to take necessary precautions and remain
attentive to updates from the Department of Irrigation and relevant disaster management
authorities. People should avoid crossing flooded roads, overflowing streams and
submerged bridges. Motorists should not attempt to drive through floodwater when
the depth or condition of the road is uncertain.

People living in low-lying areas should be prepared to move to safer locations if
instructed by authorities. Local officials and emergency services should be informed
if floodwater begins entering homes or threatens access roads.

**Important:** These notices describe potential flood risks, not confirmation that
all listed areas are already flooded. The Kelani River notice specifies a 24-hour
risk period from the time of issuance. Readers should check the latest official 
updates for current conditions and any revised warnings.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as rainfall and reservoir releases may
influence river water levels in the affected catchment areas.