Sri Lanka is expected to experience widespread rainfall over the next 10 days, with the Department of Meteorology cautioning that heavy rain could trigger flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Meteorology Department Director General Ajith Wijemanna issued the warning at a special media briefing today (16), urging both the public and authorities to prepare for potentially worsening weather conditions.
Wijemanna said preparations are already being made to deal with the effects of prevailing El Niño conditions, but additional steps will be necessary as forecasts indicate an increased risk of heavy rainfall and related hazards.
He said October and November are expected to bring particularly heavy rainfall, during which flooding and landslides could occur in several areas.
According to Wijemanna, atmospheric disturbances commonly form over the Bay of Bengal during these months, and their impact could become stronger under El Niño conditions.
He also warned that rainfall is expected to increase in the northeastern parts of the island in December, while calling on the public and relevant agencies to remain vigilant.
Rainfall in the Northern and Eastern provinces is expected to remain around average levels. However, Wijemanna noted that certain Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) conditions could contribute to flooding in those regions.
Looking further ahead, February, March and April next year are expected to bring higher temperatures accompanied by comparatively lower rainfall.
Wijemanna stressed that effective management of rainfall over the coming months will be important as the country prepares for changing weather patterns and potential weather-related hazards.
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