August 25, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka could face wetter-than-usual conditions during October and November, with the country’s prevailing El Niño pattern raising the prospect of intense rainfall and localised flooding, according to the Department of Meteorology.
Meteorological Director General Ajith Wijemanna said forecasts based on an assessment of weather patterns over the coming six months indicated that rainfall during the two-month period could exceed normal seasonal levels.
October and November are particularly important to Sri Lanka’s annual rainfall cycle, with roughly 30% of the country’s yearly precipitation typically recorded during these months. Any significant increase could place additional pressure on reservoirs, waterways and drainage systems.
Wijemanna said widespread rainfall was expected across the island during the period, and persistent or exceptionally heavy showers could cause water levels in reservoirs to rise rapidly. Low-lying and flood-prone areas could consequently face an increased risk of inundation.
However, he stressed that the forecast did not mean flooding was certain, but rather highlighted the need for authorities and communities to remain prepared as the wet season approaches.
The meteorological outlook also points to a potentially stronger influence from El Niño later in the year. Wijemanna said its effects were expected to become more pronounced between December and February, which could bring further changes to Sri Lanka’s weather patterns.
Authorities are therefore expected to keep a close watch on rainfall, reservoir levels and river conditions as the country moves into a period traditionally associated with heavier precipitation.
The Meteorology Department has urged attention to evolving forecasts, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding, as rainfall patterns can vary considerably from one part of the island to another.