Early Advisory for Flood Preparedness Issued

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Department of Irrigation says that the Department of Meteorology has analyzed and forecast a developing low-pressure system in the vicinity of the South Andaman Sea, along with its potential intensification over the coming days, and the associated impacts,

The Department of Irrigation issuing a statement said the condition was analyzed by the Met Department using European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts models. 

Accordingly, official advisories have been issued regarding the likelihood of very heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm in the Northern, North Central, Eastern, Southern, Uva, and Western Provinces, as well as significant rainfall in other parts of the country.

Considering the current situation, where water levels of major rivers are already at high stages, Met Department further warns that there exists a substantial risk of flash flooding in the event of high-intensity, short-duration rainfall as forecast. 

Furthermore, based on the prevailing conditions and historical hydrological behavior patterns of river basins in the affected regions, there is a high probability of flood occurrence during the period from November 25 to November 30 in the above-mentioned areas. 

Therefore, the departments have strongly advised the residents of low-lying floodplains along river basins and individuals travelling through these regions, to remain vigilant and to closely monitor preliminary flood warning bulletins issued by the Department of Irrigation. 

According to the statement, relevant disaster management authorities are hereby requested to take all necessary preparedness and mitigation measures in response to the anticipated flood risk.