Sri Lanka's reservoirs have dropped to 47.3% capacity amid dry weather conditions, with eastern districts particularly affected. The Irrigation Department says current supplies will sustain the final stages of Yala cultivation and drinking water needs until the next rains.
The total water storage across Sri Lankan reservoirs has declined to approximately 47.3% of capacity due to ongoing dry conditions, according to H. M. P. S. D. Herath, Director of Water Management at the Irrigation Department. Major reservoirs under departmental control are holding around 34.4% of their capacity, while reservoirs in Ampara, Batticaloa, and Trincomalee districts face more severe shortages, averaging approximately 20% capacity.
Herath stated that despite these reductions, available water reserves are expected to sustain both the concluding phase of the current Yala cultivation season and drinking water provision for reservoir-dependent communities until the next rainfall arrives. However, he acknowledged that hot weather conditions are accelerating evaporation losses and urged farmers and residents to conserve water for both agricultural and domestic uses.
The department is preparing contingency plans for the upcoming Maha cultivation season, with decisions about commencement timing to be made during cultivation meetings based on water levels at that time. Authorities have indicated an aim to begin the Maha season as soon as feasible, contingent on water availability assessments.