Sri Lanka may experience changes in rainfall patterns and rising temperatures in the coming months as El Niño conditions develop, Meteorology Department Director General  Ajith Wijemanna said.The Department expects temperatures to increase during February, March and April 2027, while rainfall could remain below normal during this period. As a result, relatively dry weather conditions may prevail across several parts of the country.

The impact of rising temperatures could also be felt more strongly during the daytime, with nighttime temperatures potentially increasing as well, Wijemanna said.Meanwhile, several drought-affected areas are expected to receive rainfall. Heavy showers are forecast in the evening today and tomorrow in Monaragala, Badulla, Mannar and Batticaloa districts, as well as in certain areas of the Eastern Province.The Department also expressed hope that more widespread rainfall could begin towards the end of September, which could provide some relief to areas currently experiencing dry conditions.The World Meteorological Organization has indicated a high likelihood of El Niño conditions during October and November, with the phenomenon potentially becoming stronger during this period.Meteorological authorities continue to monitor the situation, as the evolving El Niño conditions could influence Sri Lanka’s rainfall patterns and temperature levels in the months ahead.

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