Sri Lanka opposition leader calls for El Niño task force

Sri Lankan Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has urged the government to establish an immediate task force to confront the potential impacts of the El Niño weather phenomenon. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with changing climate patterns.

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An urgent task force should be established to face the El Niño situation.

Premadasa stated that he had first brought up the issue of climate change and the potential effects of El Niño and La Niña at a parliamentary forum on climate change on April 7. During that session, he noted that experts from various state institutions were consulted, and both local and international specialists predicted that the El Niño and subsequent La Niña phases could be severe.

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Experts from various state institutions were summoned for discussion.

He further warned that there is a 63% probability of a "super El Niño" occurring, which could lead to a prolonged dry period. Conversely, the subsequent La Niña phase might bring intense rainfall outside of the usual season. These extreme weather conditions pose a significant threat to humans, animals, and the environment, potentially exacerbating water scarcity and impacting hydroelectric power generation.

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There is a 63% probability that a super El Niño situation could arise.