Sri Lanka warns of stronger El Nino impact, possible drought and heavy rains

COLOMBO, July 31 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan authorities are strengthening disaster preparedness measures as the El Nino climate phenomenon intensifies, raising the risk of prolonged dry weather followed by heavy rainfall later in the year, officials and climate experts have said.

Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi said El Nino is expected to peak around November, earlier than previously anticipated, and could cause significant changes in the country's weather patterns over the coming months.

Sri Lanka could experience severe dry conditions during July, August and September, followed by possible heavy rainfall in October, November and December, the minister told a media briefing at the Department of Government Information.

He said government institutions were preparing for the potential effects of the global climate phenomenon, which could affect livelihoods, economic activity and public health. He also urged the public to conserve water and electricity, warning that the country could face a severe drought if conditions deteriorate.

Director General of the Department of Meteorology Ajith Wijemanna said the El Nino event, which had remained weak globally, was strengthening toward a moderate phase and could develop into an extremely strong event.

Buddhi Marambe, a senior professor with the University of Peradeniya, also warned that Sri Lanka must be prepared for potentially severe consequences of the phenomenon, which can trigger extreme weather conditions in different parts of the world.

Marambe said the El Nino event that developed in the Pacific Ocean is currently weak but is likely to strengthen.

Several areas of Sri Lanka are already experiencing severe dry weather, while farmers have reported that water sources have dried up and cultivation lands have been damaged.

Despite the conditions, Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe said paddy cultivation for the upcoming Maha agricultural season was expected to begin in the first week of October.

Susil Ranasinghe, the country's minister of housing, construction and water supply, has urged the public to use water responsibly until the dry conditions ease.

Disaster Management Centre Director General Sampath Kotuwegoda said plans were being prepared to respond to possible disasters linked to El Nino-related climate changes. ■