Rising sea temperatures raise drought concerns in Sri Lanka
COLOMBO – Sea-surface temperatures around Sri Lanka have risen by about 1°C, raising concerns about worsening heat and drought conditions, as well as the possible effects of El Niño.
The Department of Meteorology said the increase was being observed amid broader warming in the Pacific Ocean, where temperatures had reportedly risen by about 3°C.
Meteorological authorities have warned that the next eight months could be critical for Sri Lanka, with several districts already experiencing severe dry conditions.
While both daytime and nighttime temperatures have increased in recent weeks, authorities said areas affected by the prolonged dry spell may not receive significant rainfall until the end of September.
Local media reports said the dry conditions were already affecting communities in several districts whose livelihoods depend on adequate water supplies.
The Department of Irrigation said drinking-water needs would continue to be met through available reservoirs and tanks, but cautioned that water releases for agriculture could be restricted if the dry weather persists.
The Disaster Management Centre said the prevailing dry conditions had so far affected 81,605 people across 22 Divisional Secretariat divisions in seven districts.
Authorities are continuing to monitor weather patterns and water resources amid concerns that Sri Lanka could experience prolonged heat and drought in the months ahead.
-ENCL
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