Spill Gates Opened in 22 Major Reservoirs; Landslide Warnings Issued for Six Districts

16-May-2026

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Due to heavy rainfall across several parts of the country, water levels in the Kalu Ganga, Kelani Ganga, Attanagalu Oya, and Maha Oya have risen sharply, increasing the risk of minor flooding and landslides in multiple districts.

The Irrigation Department has opened spill gates of 22 reservoirs out of 73 major reservoirs under its control. Additional water releases from reservoirs such as Rajanganaya, Inginimitiya, Tabbowa, and Nachchaduwa have caused rising water levels in the Mee Oya and Kala Oya areas.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Government Information Department on may 15, Director of the Irrigation Department Engineer L.S. Suryabandara said heavy rainfall had been recorded in coastal areas and river basins of the Western, North Western, and Central provinces. Significant rainfall has been recorded in the Kalu Ganga, Kelani Ganga, Attanagalu Oya, and Maha Oya regions, and water levels at the Millakanda area of the Kalu Ganga have risen.

He added that a minor flood situation had developed in the Kuda Ganga area since morning of May 15, and residents in low-lying areas within the Divisional Secretariat divisions of Bulathsinhala, Madurawala, and Palindanuwara have been advised to remain vigilant. As water has already entered several areas, further rainfall could worsen the situation.