The United Nations (UN) has warned that Sri Lanka could experience above-average rainfall during the latter part of this year due to prevailing El Niño climate conditions.
The UN cautioned that increased rainfall could raise the risk of flooding, inundation and disruptions to agricultural activities.
The warning was issued in the UN’s latest assessment of the potential impacts of El Niño across Asia. Sri Lanka has been identified as a country requiring heightened attention, with above-average rainfall considered the main climate-related risk rather than dry conditions.
According to the assessment, significant rainfall is expected across many parts of Sri Lanka during October and November. Above-average rainfall could also continue from December to February as the Northeast Monsoon becomes active.
The UN further warned that Sri Lanka’s economic pressures could increase due to the combined effects of climate-related risks and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
However, the UN noted that there is still a critical window for preparedness, as the anticipated risks have not yet developed into widespread impacts.
Meanwhile, Anuradhapura District Secretary Ranjith Wimalasooriya said several reservoirs in the Anuradhapura District have dried up due to the prevailing dry weather conditions.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture Namal Karunaratne said the government is already taking necessary measures to provide compensation for farmland affected by El Niño-related conditions.
