El Niño expected to gradually impact Sri Lanka, experts warn

[00:00:00]Many countries across the globe are beginning to experience El Nino weather conditions. Foreign reports assert that nations including Indonesia, India, South Africa, and Australia are already impacted by El Nino conditions. In this context, reports warn of destruction to cultivations, wildfires, droughts, floods, and landslides.

[00:00:21]Against this backdrop, many areas across Sri Lanka continue to experience heavy rainfall with southwest monsoon conditions looming over the island.

[00:00:32]>> Monsoons are expected to intensify in the coming days. However, we will gradually start to feel the impact of El Nino. We expect rainfall to subside by July or August. According to a recent report, there is a 63% probability of El Nino conditions intensifying. If this does happen, we expect a decrease in rainfall from January to April next year.

[00:00:55]>> Issuing a red warning for strong winds and rough seas, the Department of Meteorology stated that sea areas of the coasts extending from Kankasanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar will be very rough at times with strong gusty winds reaching up to 60 to 70 km/h. The top weather office went on to warn naval and fishing communities not to venture into forementioned sea areas until further notice. Meanwhile, the Department also noted that sea areas of the coasts extending from Trincomalee to Kankasanthurai via Mullaitivu and Kalpitiya to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle, and Hambantota will be rough at times with strong gusty winds reaching up to 50 to 60 km/h.

[00:01:32]Several residences in Maggona, Galaha, Godakawela, Yatiyantota sustained damage due to fallen trees.

[00:01:44]>> [clears throat] >> Strong winds in Kiribathgoda, Kaleliya in Pitipana, Homagama damaged 52 residences in the area.

[00:01:57]>> What I do?

[00:02:01]>> [music]