El Niño: Rainfall expected across Sri Lanka over next 10 days

The Meteorology Department has cautioned that widespread rainfall is expected across Sri Lanka within the next ten days, with forecasts indicating possible heavy rains, landslides, and floods linked to the prevailing El Niño condition.

Director General Ajith Wijemanne, speaking at a media briefing today (16), said that while preparations are in place to face El Niño, authorities and the public must remain vigilant as extreme weather could intensify in the coming months.

He noted that October and November are traditionally months of continuous disturbances in the Bay of Bengal, and under El Niño these could become more severe, bringing increased rainfall and heightened risk of floods and landslides.

Wijemanne added that in December, heavier rainfall is expected in the northeastern region of the island, while the Northern and Eastern Provinces are forecast to receive normal rainfall.

However, under the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) condition, flood situations could still arise in those areas, he added.

Looking ahead, he warned that February to April 2027 is likely to bring higher temperatures and reduced rainfall, stressing the need for careful management of water resources in the months ahead.