The Irrigation Department has issued a ‘Red’ warning for the low-lying areas of the Nilwala River valley due to the possibility of a major flood situation.In an advisory issued this evening, the Director General of Irrigation, Eng.

Ajith Gunasekara said there is a high risk of flood protection bunds overtopping at some locations as the river is already at a considerably high flood level.Accordingly, the residents of and motorists passing through Matara, Malimbada, Kamburupitiya, Thihagoda, Athuraliya and Akurassa Divisional Secretariats have been urged to be vigilant.Additionally, disaster management authorities and district/divisional administrations have been advised to take necessary precautions.Earlier today, the Department of Meteorology warned that heavy rains of over 100mm are expected in the southern province.