August 20, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Meteorology Department has warned that the prevailing El Niño conditions are increasingly likely to persist into the first quarter of next year, with global forecasts putting the probability at 97 per cent.
Meteorology Department Director General Ajith Wijemannage disclosed the latest assessment at a press briefing held today (20), cautioning that the prolonged weather pattern could have noticeable effects on rainfall and temperatures across Sri Lanka.
He said relatively dry conditions are expected to persist through next month in several parts of the country, particularly the Northern, Eastern and North Central provinces as well as Monaragala District.
According to Wijemannage, the extended El Niño phase could become more significant in the months ahead, with rainfall between February and April next year potentially falling well below normal levels.
At the same time, temperatures are expected to climb, raising concerns about increasingly uncomfortable and potentially hazardous heat conditions, particularly for vulnerable groups and those exposed to outdoor environments.
The Meteorology Department is continuing to monitor international climate forecasts and their possible implications for Sri Lanka, as authorities prepare for the prospect of a warmer and drier period during the early months of 2027.
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