Sri Lanka could face extended drought conditions through September if an El Niño event develops during the upcoming southwest monsoon season, the Department of Meteorology warned yesterday.

Speaking at a media briefing held at the Government Information Department, Additional Director General Ajith Wijemanna stressed the need for proactive water management to mitigate potential shortages.

He cautioned that both drinking water supplies and irrigation systems would need to be carefully managed in the months ahead, particularly if rainfall levels decline.

Wijemanna also noted that the prevailing high temperatures across the country are expected to persist throughout April. He said warm conditions would likely continue into early May, with only minor fluctuations over the next two to three weeks.

The southwest monsoon is forecast to set in around April 20, which is expected to bring some relief from the current heat. However, he said more significant improvement in weather conditions is likely only after the third week of May.

He further warned that the emergence of an El Niño during the monsoon period could result in below-average rainfall between June and August, increasing the risk of prolonged dry conditions.

Such a scenario, he said, would heighten pressure on water resources and agricultural activities, reinforcing the need for coordinated and efficient water management across all sectors.

Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely as the monsoon season approaches.

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who underwent a surgery in Singapore, returned to the country yesterday morning (09).

Former President Wickremesinghe departed for Singapore on March 15..

Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre
Issued at 3.30 p.m. on 09 April 2026, valid for 10 April 2026.

The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Eastern, North-western, Northern and North-central provinces and in Monaragala district.

The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.

Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.

ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.

Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.