The Department of Meteorology says there is a 97% probability that the current El Niño phenomenon will continue until the first quarter of next year.
Director General of the Department of Meteorology Ajith Wijemannage said dry weather conditions are expected to continue next month in several areas, including the Northern, Eastern and North Central Provinces and the Monaragala District.
“There is a global prediction of a 97% probability that this El Niño condition will continue until early next year,” Wijemannage said.
He warned that rainfall during February, March and April next year could be significantly lower, while temperatures are expected to increase.
He further cautioned that the resulting heat conditions could become difficult for people to tolerate.
