The Department of Meteorology has warned that Sri Lanka could face the effects of a strong El Niño event, while urging the public to use water sparingly.
The phenomenon has already begun developing in the Pacific Ocean and remains weak at present, but forecasters say it has the potential to strengthen over the coming months. Director of Forecasting Meril Mendis said the likelihood of it developing into a more intense event remains high.
“We do not believe a severe water shortage will occur. However, the most important factor is the prudent use of the water resources currently available,” Mendis told NewsFirst, adding that rainfall conditions are expected to improve after October under El Niño’s influence.
Met Department Director General Ajith Wijemanna said the condition could develop into an extremely strong event, and that it is now strengthening from a weak towards a moderate phase.
Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi told a media briefing at the Department of Government Information that the phenomenon is expected to peak around November — earlier than previously anticipated. He said Sri Lanka could see severe dry weather through July, August and September, followed by the possibility of heavy rainfall in October, November and December, and urged the public to conserve both water and electricity.
University of Peradeniya Senior Professor Buddhi Marambe warned that the country must be prepared for severe consequences. Parts of the island are already under severe dry conditions, with farmers reporting that water sources have dried up and cultivation land has been damaged.
Disaster Management Centre Director General Major General (Retd.) Sampath Kotuwegoda, giving evidence before a parliamentary oversight committee, said a dry spell of about two months is expected and that districts are being prepared, with water bowsers and sources already identified and mapped. Drinking water would be prioritised over agriculture if supplies tighten, he said. The committee also heard that the Disaster Management Fund established by an Act of Parliament has not yet been fully operationalised.
Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe said a ministerial subcommittee has been appointed to coordinate the government response, and that Maha season paddy cultivation is still expected to begin in the first week of October.
The warnings follow the Met Department’s earlier assessment of a high probability of El Niño conditions over the October-December period.
