• Irrigation Dept. says reservoirs capacity sufficient 

The prevailing dry weather conditions over the island are expected to change from today (2), the Meteorology Department stated.

Meanwhile, showers or thunder storms may occur at several places in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and Southern Provinces in the evening or night. The general public is requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thunderstorms. 

Mainly dry weather will prevail over the other parts of the island. Misty conditions can be expected at some places in the Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and North Central Provinces and in the Galle and Matara Districts of the Southern Province during the early hours of the morning.

Meanwhile, the Irrigation Department has urged the general public to use water sparingly amid the prevailing dry weather conditions in the country.

The Director of Irrigation (Hydrology and Disaster Management), L.S. Sooriyabandara stated that water levels in several major rivers are currently around 75 per cent. He noted that there is sufficient capacity to supply water for the current cultivation season. “Water levels in most major rivers are currently at lower levels. 

However, of the 73 reservoirs managed by the Department, many have exceeded 75% of their average capacity. Therefore, we are able to provide water for this season,” he said. He further warned that there is a possibility of saltwater intrusion at locations where water is drawn from rivers for drinking purposes, particularly in the Nilwala, Kelani, and Kalu Rivers. Accordingly, the general public has been advised to use water with utmost care.