Reservoirs at full capacity - warning of earthquake risk in central hills

With the water levels of the main reservoirs in the central hill country reaching their maximum limits, there is a risk of earthquakes or earth tremors in the region, warns Professor Athula Senaratne of the Department of Geology at the University of Peradeniya.

He pointed out that the water levels of the Kotmale, Victoria, Polgolla, Randenigala, Rantambe, Bowatenna, Castlereagh and Maussakelle reservoirs are at spilling point, and some are nearing the stage where their spill gates must be opened.

When water stands in reservoirs for a long period, the rock layers in the ground come under pressure, creating the possibility of earth tremors, he explained.

He recalled that after similar heavy rainfall in the past, tremors occurred within a short period centred on the Thiyathalawa and Pallekele areas of the central hills.

With heavy rain continuing in many parts of the country, it is advisable for residents of the hill country to pay attention to official warnings and remain cautious.