Unraveling the Impact of Matara’s Devastating Floods – A Community in Crisis

Matara, where a lot of rain caused floods and landslides between the 28^th of September and to 08^th of October 2023. The upper catchment of Nilwala River is still getting considerable rainfall currently (13^th October) as stated by the Irrigation Department. So, flood conditions in the lower catchment of Nilwala River can increase without water flowing away.  Matara faced some landslides because of heavy rain. This made things challenging for people living there. Accordingly, the low-lying areas of the Nilwala River valley belonging to Matara, Malimbada, Kamburupitiya, Thibagoda, Athuraliya and Akurassa Divisional Secretariats are being threatened by the Major Flood Situation. Due to the heavy rainfall that has affected Matara district, as of 4.00 pm (13th October) 5745 people from 1495 families in the district have been affected by the heavy rains that have affected Matara district. 10216 people in 3098 families have been trapped by the flood. 20 houses were completely damaged, 617 houses were partially damaged, and 75 other properties were damaged, according to Matara District Secretary. 

In this article, we’ll explore what’s really happening in floods in Matara. 

Current Flood Situation in Matara

As heavy rains persist in Matara, the region is grappling with a surge in water levels, leading to localized flooding in several areas including Matara, Malimbada, Kamburupitiya, Thibagoda, Athuraliya and Akurassa Divisional Secretariats. The Bunts and Nilwala rivers, usually calm, have swelled beyond their normal levels, causing water to encroach on fields and homes. According to the latest Island wide Water Level & Rainfall Situation in Major Rivers notice published by the Irrigation Department the water level of Nilwala River near Thalahagoda and Panadugama stations are respectively 2.14 m and 2.68 m which shows falling water levels on the 12th of October at 6.30 pm to 7.00 pm. However, these data still represent minor flood situations for some areas in Matara.  

During the past few days, a major flood event occurred in several areas. The increased water flow is a result of continuous heavy rainfall, which has saturated the soil, leading to runoff into rivers and low-lying areas. The situation is challenging for locals, particularly in areas like Hiththetiya, Malimbada, Kadduwa, and Akuressa, where roads have become difficult to navigate.

Currently, to the date 13^th October, 05 safe centres are being operated to provide relief to the displaced people and there are 500 people in 147 families in those safe centers. Relief work for the affected people is implemented at the regional secretariat level with the direct intervention of the regional secretaries of the respective regional secretariats. District Governor and lawyer Mr Y. Wickramasiri says.

Landslides in some areas

The hilly terrain in the Matara area has become vulnerable to erosion, posing a threat to the communities residing in these areas. Several landslides in low-impact levels have been confirmed already in hilly areas including Deniyaya, Akuressa, and Telijjawila.  

A part of Rangodakande, located between the 101^st and 102nd-kilometre posts between Imaduwa and Pinnaduwa on the Southern Expressway, suffered a landslide (11^th of October) afternoon. Due to this, all four lanes of the section between Imaduwa and Pinnaduwa on the Southern Expressway have been completely stopped as of the next day morning (12) and the road restoration work is currently underway. 

Figure 01 – Landslide in Southern Highway Express

The physical toll is devastating, with 390 houses reported as severely damaged and two completely destroyed in the Matara district alone. The aftermath is evident in the debris-laden streets, the despair of families, and the widespread disruption that the floodwaters have left behind.

Figure 03 – Amber color landslide early warning for Matara

Still, considerable numbers of areas have warning level 02 – amber colour landslide early warning notice status as published by the NBRO. 

Climate Conditions and Regional Weather Phenomena 

We reached out to the Department of Meteorology to unravel the science behind these extreme weather events. Our questions delve into the changing climate patterns and their impact on regional weather phenomena.

According to that, El Niño conditions are observed. Equatorial sea surface temperatures (SSTs) are above average across the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. The tropical Pacific atmospheric anomalies are consistent with El Niño.El Niño is anticipated to continue through the Northern Hemisphere winter (with greater than a 95% chance through January-March 2024). 

Previous studies conducted by the Department of Meteorology identified that, during El-Niño years, above-normal rainfalls are likely over most parts of the country during the month of October. This is the same under the positive IOD condition. This year under goes the both conditions. 

Figure 04 – Monthly Rainfall Anomaly maps of the months of October(A), November (B) and December (C) during El-Niño years (Hapuarachchi et al 2016)

While the future remains uncertain, there’s a glimmer of hope on the meteorological horizon. Predictions from the Department of Meteorology suggest that the relentless showers battering the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and Southern provinces might temporarily reduce. However, Matara still is getting rainfall of more than 100 mm. This forecast respite offers a crucial window of opportunity for rescue and aid efforts, providing those impacted a chance to take the first steps towards recovery.

Disaster Management 

Unfortunately, some folks lost homes, and it’s been tough for the community with the property damage, submerged Houses and impassable roads. Bunts and Nilwala rivers, once lifelines, now surge beyond their banks, submerging fields and settlements.  

In the face of these challenges, climate resilience, Disaster Preparedness and Community Resilience become paramount. We leave you with advice from experts and locals on preparing for and mitigating the impact of such disasters. External support becomes paramount during such disasters, where rehabilitation and restoration demand collaborative efforts. The Disaster Management Authorities and District/ Divisional Administrations are requested to take necessary precautions. The collective response from governmental bodies, non-profit organizations, and compassionate individuals becomes instrumental in aiding displaced families to revive, relocate, and rebuild.

Sri Lanka is having a difficult time with the economic crisis. However, it is important to cast an eye towards the future, while the immediate focus is on attending to the pressing needs of flood-affected families. The resilience of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and communication networks, Comprehensive risk assessments, adaptive infrastructure, early warning systems, and community-driven disaster preparedness plans become vital components in mitigating the future and play a pivotal role in effective rescue and recovery operations. 

Conclusion

Currently, Matara is facing a difficult regional weather situation which is doubtable for being a part of the climate crisis. The tale of Matara’s flooding crisis is a poignant reminder for communities worldwide to prioritize preparedness, resilience, and mutual support. While natural disasters may be inevitable, a proactive and collaborative approach can make the difference between swift recovery and prolonged suffering. Efforts are still underway to manage the situation, with community members coming together to assist those affected. The focus is on ensuring the safety of residents and providing support to those who have faced losses, including damage to homes and property.

-With inputs from Nuwandhara Mudalige-