Sri Lanka warns of drought, floods from El Nino

Sri Lanka's Meteorological Department has issued a stark warning about the impending arrival of the El Niño phenomenon, predicting a significant shift in weather patterns that could bring both severe drought and heavy floods to the island nation. The forecast signals a departure from the usual monsoon seasons, raising concerns among agricultural communities and disaster management agencies.

The department's advisory highlights the potential for prolonged dry spells, which could devastate crops and strain water resources, a critical concern for an economy heavily reliant on agriculture. Conversely, El Niño is also associated with intense rainfall events, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas, particularly in the central highlands and coastal regions.

In response to these warnings, government agencies are mobilizing to prepare for the dual threats. Disaster management authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their lives and property. The focus is on mitigating the impact on food security and preventing potential humanitarian crises that could arise from extreme weather events.