Sri Lanka Braces for Potential El Niño Impact

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lankan government has already initiated a series of preparedness measures to address the potential impacts of future El Niño conditions, including possible droughts, wildfire risks and other climate-related emergencies, Environment Minister Dhammika Patabendi said.

Speaking on the government's ongoing preparations, the Minister said a committee established to address El Niño-related challenges convened on June 30 to assess potential risks and formulate response strategies.

According to Patabendi, discussions focused on preparations required to mitigate the effects of possible drought conditions, with particular attention given to water resource management and disaster preparedness measures. He noted that relevant authorities have already undertaken necessary planning and readiness activities through both disaster management mechanisms and the Ministry of Environment.

The Minister further stated that officials are mindful of the increased likelihood of wildfire incidents during prolonged dry weather conditions associated with El Niño events. As a result, precautionary measures have been put in place to address potential fire emergencies and other climate-related risks.