– The Government is closely monitoring the anticipated El Niño climate phenomenon and is formulating plans to address its potential impacts, Cabinet Spokesman and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said today (16).Speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing, Dr. Jayatissa said several rounds of discussions have already been held under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to assess the possible effects of the weather pattern and prepare appropriate responses.

He noted that ministers have also discussed measures that can be implemented at the ministerial level to mitigate any challenges that may arise.The Minister further stated that the Government is paying close attention to forecasts issued by the Department of Meteorology and is developing contingency plans based on weather conditions that could emerge over the coming year.