Met Dept. warns El Niño conditions may trigger heavy rainfall, flooding in Oct-Nov

Sri Lanka’s prevailing El Niño conditions could bring above average rainfall during October and November period, with the possibility of flooding in some areas, the Department of Meteorology says.

Director General of the Department of Meteorology Ajith Wijemanna said heavy rainfall exceeding the seasonal average could be experienced during the period.

He said this was revealed through an analysis of weather data for the next six months.

Speaking to the media about the prevailing weather conditions, Wijemanna said around 30% of the annual rainfall is normally received during October and November.

He noted that if rainfall exceeds the usual levels, reservoirs could fill rapidly, potentially leading to flooding in some areas.

“Rainfall spreads across the entire country during October and November, and heavy rainfall is possible. This does not mean that flooding will definitely occur, but we need to be prepared for the possibility,” he said.

Meanwhile, Wijemanna said the effects of the El Niño phenomenon are expected to intensify during December, January and February.