Sri Lanka’s Department of Agriculture has advised farmers to use water wisely in anticipation of potential El Nino effects. The department’s director general, Thushara Wickramaarachchi, recommended planting short-term crops as a precaution. Farmers are urged to be cautious during the Yala farming season, manage water resources efficiently, and heed advice from agriculture officials.
The Department of Meteorology in Sri Lanka has warned of reduced rainfall and potential drought conditions in July and August if El Nino conditions materialize. Ajith Wijemanna, the acting director general, highlighted the risks to agriculture, irrigation, water supply, energy, and public health due to the anticipated decrease in rainfall. The World Meteorological Organization has indicated a high probability of El Nino conditions emerging in the coming months.
El Nino typically lasts for nine to 12 months, with potential impacts on Sri Lanka until February 2027 if it occurs this year. There is a significant likelihood of the system intensifying into a strong El Nino by the end of the year. The recent El Nino event in 2023-2024, one of the strongest on record, contributed to record global temperatures in 2024. The World Meteorological Organization emphasized the importance of early warnings and preparedness to mitigate the effects of El Nino.
