Sri Lanka faces a heightened threat of dual natural disasters due to severe weather patterns triggered by predicted El Niño conditions, according to Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, who accused the government of failing to prepare adequate contingency plans.
Premadasa issued the warning in a post on X following a joint assessment by United Nations agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the World Meteorological Organization.
The UN report identified Sri Lanka as a country of elevated concern as the island approaches the upcoming Maha cultivation season.
The UN assessment indicates that above-average rainfall could hit the island starting from October with the arrival of the Second Inter-Monsoon.
While increased precipitation can replenish depleted reservoirs, excessive rain during the crucial planting phase risks causing severe flooding, waterlogging, and significant delays to agricultural activities.
This threat comes alongside earlier forecasts of prolonged dry spells before the rains set in, creating a double risk of drought followed by floods and landslides.
Premadasa criticized the government for what he termed absolute negligence, noting that the lack of protective measures for lives and property is indefensible in light of clear scientific warnings.
The situation is further complicated by rising living costs, which could compound the burden on vulnerable farming communities across the country.
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