El Niño risk could extend drought until September – Met. Dept

Department of Meteorology has warned that a potential El Niño event during the southwest monsoon could lead to drought conditions extending until September.

Speaking at a media briefing, Additional Director General Ajith Wijemanna stressed the need for proactive water management, particularly for drinking water supplies and irrigation systems.

He noted that prevailing high temperatures are expected to continue throughout this month, with minor fluctuations likely into the following weeks. Although the southwest monsoon is expected to begin around April 20, bringing some relief, severe conditions are likely to ease significantly only after the third week of May.

Wijemanna further stated that if an El Niño event materializes, rainfall during June to August could be below average, increasing the risk of prolonged drought conditions.

source: The Morning