{"id":248660,"date":"2026-08-28T00:24:28","date_gmt":"2026-08-27T18:54:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.colombotelegraph.com\/?p=248660"},"modified":"2026-08-28T00:24:28","modified_gmt":"2026-08-27T18:54:28","slug":"el-nino-sri-lanka-must-prepare-before-the-next-climate-crisis-arrives","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.colombotelegraph.com\/index.php\/el-nino-sri-lanka-must-prepare-before-the-next-climate-crisis-arrives\/","title":{"rendered":"El Ni\u00f1o: Sri Lanka Must Prepare Before The Next Climate Crisis Arrives"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>By <a style=\"color: #ff6600;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.colombotelegraph.com\/?s=Chula+Goonasekera\">Chula Goonasekera<\/a> &#8211;<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><i>Based on discussions with Ajith Wijemanna, Director General of the Department of Meteorology, and Kithsiri Abayasinghe, former Director of the Department of Meteorology<\/i><\/span><i><\/i><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Sri Lanka may be facing another major natural challenge. Unlike many disasters, however, the warning signs are already visible, giving the country an opportunity to prepare before the situation becomes critical.<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-247706 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.colombotelegraph.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/el-nino.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"550\" height=\"347\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.colombotelegraph.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/el-nino.jpg 550w, https:\/\/www.colombotelegraph.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/el-nino-300x189.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 550px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 550\/347;\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">A recent discussion with two of Sri Lanka&#8217;s most experienced meteorologists highlighted concerns about the developing El Ni\u00f1o phenomenon and its potential consequences for the country. While no scientist can predict with certainty exactly how El Ni\u00f1o will evolve, current indications suggest the possibility of above-normal rainfall later this year, followed by reduced rainfall and potentially severe drought conditions in early 2027.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">This is a warning Sri Lanka cannot afford to ignore.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Most Sri Lankans still remember the devastation caused by the Indian Ocean tsunami in December 2004. El Ni\u00f1o is fundamentally different. It does not arrive as a single catastrophic event. Instead, its effects can develop over many months, potentially bringing drought, water shortages, crop failures, extreme heat, wildfires, flooding and food insecurity.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The critical difference is that, unlike a tsunami, El Ni\u00f1o gives us time to prepare.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Sri Lanka therefore has a choice: act on the warnings now or pay a far greater price later.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>We Must Not Wait for Disaster<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The 2004 tsunami exposed Sri Lanka&#8217;s vulnerability to large-scale disasters and demonstrated the immense human and economic costs of inadequate preparedness.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">El Ni\u00f1o cannot be prevented. However, many of its potentially damaging consequences can be reduced through early planning, effective coordination, public awareness and practical risk-reduction measures.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The purpose of this article is not to predict exactly what will happen. Rather, it is to ask a more important question:<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>Are we prepared for what could happen?<\/b><\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"p5\">Depending on the intensity and evolution of El Ni\u00f1o, Sri Lanka could face:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li6\">severe drought and prolonged dry spells;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">water shortages affecting households, agriculture and industry;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">reduced agricultural production and increased food insecurity;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">increased risks of forest and grassland fires;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">heatwaves and heat-related illness; and<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">localised flooding caused by unusually heavy rainfall.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p3\">One threat deserves particular attention: wildfires.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">During prolonged dry periods, fires can spread rapidly through forests and grasslands, destroying ecosystems, wildlife habitats, agricultural land, livelihoods and critical infrastructure, while placing enormous pressure on emergency services.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The lesson is straightforward: understanding potential worst-case scenarios before they occur greatly improves our ability to prevent them from becoming national catastrophes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>A Crucial Role for Disaster Management<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">We understand that Sri Lanka&#8217;s Disaster Management Centre (DMC) is already engaged in preparing the country for the potential impacts of a stronger El Ni\u00f1o event. Its focus must remain on helping communities prepare before emergencies arise, while ensuring that essential services continue to function during periods of crisis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Disaster response and recovery come at a high cost to the public through government expenditure and taxpayer-funded resources. Investing in preparedness is therefore not only a humanitarian responsibility but also a sound economic strategy\u2014particularly at a time when Sri Lanka continues to face considerable fiscal constraints and limited capacity to absorb another major shock.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The principle is clear:<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><b>Prevention is invariably less costly than recovery.<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Every rupee invested in preparedness today can help prevent far greater social and economic losses tomorrow.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>Listen to the Scientists<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The public should pay close attention to forecasts and guidance issued by the Department of Meteorology.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">At the same time, it is important to recognise that long-range forecasting is inherently complex. Climate systems involve countless interacting variables, many of which cannot be measured or predicted with complete accuracy months in advance.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">When a forecast subsequently changes, this should not automatically be regarded as a failure of science. Forecasting is, by its nature, an assessment of probabilities and risks based on the best available evidence at a particular point in time.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The appropriate response is not to dismiss forecasts because they contain uncertainty, but to use them as tools for informed preparation.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>What Should the Government Do?<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The Government and relevant public institutions should urgently review Sri Lanka&#8217;s preparedness for drought, flooding, wildfires and extreme heat.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p5\">Key priorities should include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li6\">strengthening climate monitoring and early-warning systems;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">improving weather forecasting and public communication;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">developing comprehensive drought, flood and wildfire preparedness plans;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">enhancing reservoir, catchment and water-resource management;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">maintaining drainage infrastructure to reduce urban flooding;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">strengthening wildfire prevention, detection and response capabilities;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">investing in climate-resilient infrastructure; and<\/li>\n<li class=\"li6\">establishing clear lines of responsibility and coordination among government agencies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p3\">Coordination is particularly important. During a national emergency, citizens should never be left wondering which institution is responsible for taking action.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>Water Security Must Be a National Priority<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">If prolonged dry conditions materialise, water security could become one of Sri Lanka&#8217;s most pressing challenges.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The country should strengthen groundwater protection, support the rehabilitation and maintenance of wells, and implement long-term water-security strategies in drought-prone regions. Such measures are important not only for human communities but also for agriculture, livestock and the natural ecosystems that sustain the country&#8217;s biodiversity.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Reservoirs and catchments must be managed carefully, while water conservation should be actively promoted among households, businesses, industries and farmers.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The key question is simple:<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><b>How much water will Sri Lanka require if the dry season lasts significantly longer than expected?<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">That question is far easier to answer before reservoirs begin to run dry.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>Protecting Agriculture and Food Security<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Agriculture remains highly vulnerable to drought and irregular rainfall. Significant disruption could result in rising food prices, reduced farm incomes and increased pressure on vulnerable households.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Sri Lanka should accelerate the adoption of drought-resistant crops, climate-smart farming techniques and efficient irrigation systems, including drip irrigation. Measures should also be taken to secure water and feed supplies for livestock, maintain strategic food reserves and strengthen weather-based advisory services for farmers.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Food security must be regarded not merely as an agricultural concern but as a matter of national resilience.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>Preparing for Wildfires<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Prolonged dry conditions can significantly increase wildfire risks. Sri Lanka must strengthen its capacity to prevent, detect and respond to fires before they escalate.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">An effective strategy should rest on four pillars:<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><b>Prevention. Preparedness. Early detection. Rapid response.<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Seasonal climate forecasts should be used to identify periods of heightened risk. Vegetation dryness, weather conditions and fire-prone regions should be monitored systematically, with modern technologies used wherever feasible.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Firebreaks should be established and maintained around vulnerable communities, forests and critical infrastructure. Dry vegetation and other combustible materials should be appropriately managed. Where environmentally and scientifically justified, carefully regulated controlled burning could also form part of an integrated fire-management strategy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Human activity is responsible for many wildfires. During high-risk periods, open burning should therefore be restricted and unsafe land-clearing practices rigorously controlled. Public education campaigns should reinforce these measures.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Firefighting resources should be pre-positioned in high-risk areas before peak fire seasons begin. Adequate equipment and water supplies should be secured, and coordination strengthened among local authorities, fire services, forestry officials, disaster-management agencies and, where necessary, the armed forces.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Where practical and affordable, aerial firefighting capabilities should also be considered.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The guiding principle is straightforward:<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><b>Fight fires when they are small, rather than after they become uncontrollable.<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>Protecting Sri Lanka&#8217;s Natural Ecosystems<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Healthy ecosystems are among the country&#8217;s most effective natural defences against climate stress.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Sri Lanka should protect wetlands and other water-retaining ecosystems, conserve forests, prevent unnecessary land clearing and fragmentation, and safeguard wildlife habitats from fire and degradation.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Forest conservation is not simply an environmental issue. It is central to water security, food security, biodiversity protection, public health and long-term national resilience.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>Citizens Also Have a Responsibility<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Preparedness cannot be the responsibility of government alone.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">During dry periods, households should conserve water and avoid unnecessary waste. Communities should ensure that wells are cleaned, maintained and restored where necessary, particularly if prolonged disruptions to piped water supplies occur.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">During periods of extreme heat, people should remain hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity and follow public health advice.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Families should maintain basic emergency plans and supplies. Communities in fire-prone areas should know evacuation routes and designated safe assembly points. Citizens should also avoid activities that could inadvertently start fires and remain alert to official warnings.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Particular attention should be given to vulnerable groups, including older people, people with disabilities and those with limited mobility. Communities should also be prepared for the health effects of wildfire smoke and deteriorating air quality.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s1\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><b>From Response to Preparedness<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Sri Lanka&#8217;s greatest challenge is not responding when disaster strikes. It is ensuring that natural hazards do not develop into national catastrophes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">This requires a fundamental shift from a <b>culture of reaction to a culture of preparedness.<\/b><b><\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Government agencies, scientists, farmers, businesses, schools, community organisations and individual citizens all have important roles to play. A coordinated approach combining climate forecasting, land management, public education, community preparedness, early-warning systems and rapid emergency response can significantly reduce the risks posed by El Ni\u00f1o and other climate-related threats.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Even if severe drought conditions do not materialise, investments in preparedness will strengthen Sri Lanka&#8217;s resilience against future disasters. If severe conditions do occur, early preparation could save lives, protect livelihoods, reduce economic losses and prevent a difficult situation from escalating into a national crisis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">Sri Lanka has already learned, at enormous cost, the consequences of being unprepared. We should not wait for another disaster to teach us the same lesson.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">The warning signs are present. The scientists are speaking. The risks are increasingly clear.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">What remains is the political will and public commitment to act.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><b>Preparation today will always cost less than recovery tomorrow.<\/b><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2633,"featured_media":247706,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-248660","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-colombotelegraph","category-editorial"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>El Ni\u00f1o: Sri Lanka Must Prepare Before The Next Climate Crisis Arrives - Colombo Telegraph<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.colombotelegraph.com\/index.php\/el-nino-sri-lanka-must-prepare-before-the-next-climate-crisis-arrives\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"El Ni\u00f1o: Sri Lanka Must Prepare Before The Next Climate Crisis Arrives - 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