The Government is intensifying contingency planning to address anticipated dry conditions expected between February and April 2027, following meteorological forecasts of severe weather patterns across the country.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has convened senior officials to coordinate a comprehensive response to anticipated El Niño-driven drought conditions. According to the President's Media Division, the review meeting of the Special Cabinet Sub-Committee and Officials' Committee on El Niño examined preparedness across critical sectors including agriculture, water management, power generation, plantation industries, and food security.
The Department of Meteorology has projected severe dry weather during the February to April 2027 period, prompting the Government to map vulnerable regions and develop pre-emptive water rationing plans before reservoir levels become critically low. The President instructed officials to prioritize the continuity of essential services and coordinate support mechanisms with disaster management authorities to protect affected communities during the dry spell.
Agricultural preparations are underway to capitalize on expected October rains, with plans to accelerate irrigation infrastructure rehabilitation and maximize water storage capacity. Officials have been directed to ensure adequate availability of seed paddy and fertilizer ahead of the upcoming Maha planting season, shifting focus toward land preparation using natural rainfall rather than relying solely on reservoir releases.
On the energy front, the Government plans to maintain electricity generation reserves above standard capacity levels to insulate the national power supply from potential shortages caused by depleted water resources. Additionally, the President called for contingency measures targeting vulnerable sectors, particularly plantation industries and freshwater fishing communities, with livelihood support programs to be prepared in advance.
