The Department of Meteorology has stated that the upcoming El Niño event could be more significant than any recorded over the past 75 years.

Director General Ajith Wijeyamanne stated today (11) that the probability of an El Niño event has increased from 69% to 75%, while the likelihood of it developing into a “Strong El Niño” between October and December is as high as 98%.

The Department expects rainfall across Sri Lanka to be significantly above normal during October and November, with rainfall gradually increasing across the island from late September.

However, rainfall is expected to decrease significantly from January to March next year, increasing the risk of severe water shortages.

Wijeyamanne noted that El Niño represents a shift in normal monsoon patterns rather than simply causing dry weather or drought. He also stated that temperatures are expected to remain high during the coming period, even after rainfall begins.