One spillway gate of the Upper Kotmale Reservoir was opened today (24) following heavy rainfall in the reservoir’s catchment areas, according to reservoir engineers.
Heavy rain has been falling across the Upper Kotmale catchment since early this morning, causing the reservoir’s water level to rise.
Officials have warned that if the heavy rainfall continues, the remaining spillway gates could open automatically as the water level increases.
Meanwhile, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has urged residents living along both banks of the Kotmale River downstream of the reservoir dam to remain vigilant and exercise caution.
Residents in the downstream areas are advised to closely monitor official updates and take necessary precautions as rainfall and reservoir water levels continue to change.