El Niño expected to affect SL July onwards

The Meteorology Department says Sri Lanka is expected to experience the effects of the El Niño phenomenon on its weather conditions starting next month.

The department noted that the phenomenon could have an impact on the southwest monsoon weather patterns.

It added that El Niño conditions have already developed over the Pacific Ocean and are expected to persist for around 11 months, with varying levels of intensity.

Meanwhile, a discussion is scheduled to be held today (10) to raise awareness on measures needed to address potential impacts of El Niño on Sri Lanka’s weather conditions.

The meeting will take place at the Meteorology Department and will include officials representing around 20 key sectors, including Irrigation, the Mahaweli Authority, Disaster Management, Agriculture, Agrarian Development, and Water Supply.