Sri Lanka enters El Niño phase, faces extreme weather risks

This is a developing story brought to you by Aus News Lanka, your trusted source for news for Sri Lankans in Australia and beyond.

Sri Lanka is currently experiencing El Niño conditions, with weather officials warning that the country could face a mix of extreme weather over the coming months, including reduced rainfall, floods and possible drought.

The Department of Meteorology says there is a 63% chance of a strong El Niño and a 33% chance of a weaker event.

Officials expect below-average rainfall in August, followed by increased rain during October and November, which could raise the risk of flooding in some areas. Early next year, conditions may turn much drier, with drought likely to affect water supplies, agriculture and other key sectors.

The potential impacts of El Niño were discussed at a special government meeting chaired by Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi. The committee, appointed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, is preparing short-, medium- and long-term plans to strengthen food security, water management and energy conservation.

Government agencies have been asked to submit action plans within two weeks, while the Department of Meteorology will remain the official source for all public updates on El Niño.

Source : Daily Mirror News

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.