Sri Lanka is currently grappling with severe drought conditions across multiple regions, including the North, East, North Central, and South, raising concerns about the nation's food security. The situation is further complicated by the looming prospect of a strong El Niño event expected later this year, which experts warn could exacerbate the ongoing drought and introduce flooding in other parts of the country.
The anticipated El Niño, a climate phenomenon characterized by fluctuating ocean temperatures in the Pacific, is expected to impact not only Sri Lanka but also other countries in South and Southeast Asia. The regional nature of this event threatens to disrupt agricultural production and food supply chains across the area. In Sri Lanka, the drought has already compromised the upcoming Maha crop, a critical rice-growing season, although the previous Yala crop was reported to be favorable. Farmers are currently facing difficulties in selling paddy, and if the El Niño develops as predicted, it could lead to widespread crop failures in major agricultural zones.
India, a key food supplier to Sri Lanka, is also experiencing significant drought-related challenges. Several large cultivated areas have been adversely affected, resulting in India shifting from sugar exporter to importer due to shortages. Other staple crops, including wheat, onions, potatoes, and chili peppers, are at risk, raising concerns about a regional food shortage that could drive up prices and limit availability for Sri Lankan consumers.
Beyond agriculture, the persistent drought threatens Sri Lanka’s energy sector, as hydropower accounts for approximately 40 percent of the country’s electricity generation. Reduced water levels in reservoirs could lead to power shortages, compounding the economic difficulties faced by the population.
Government officials acknowledge the complexity posed by the varied impacts of El Niño across the island. While drought dominates northern and eastern areas, other regions such as the Central Highlands and western provinces might face heavy rainfall and potential flooding. This duality presents a major challenge for disaster management and response efforts.
President Anura Kumar Dissanayaka has initiated disaster management teams to prepare for these hazards. Authorities emphasize the need for region-specific and season-specific strategies, including early warning systems to mitigate human suffering and infrastructure damage. The government is preparing for both drought and flooding scenarios, as the expected weather patterns may shift from severe dry spells to periods of torrential rain later this year and into early 2027.
Historically, Sri Lanka has adapted to similar climatic challenges using sophisticated water management systems, such as the ancient reservoirs Parakrama Samundra and Mineriya Tank, which helped mitigate past drought impacts. Experts highlight that each El Niño event differs in intensity and regional effects, complicating prediction and preparation efforts.
As Sri Lanka faces this multifaceted climate crisis, ensuring national and household food security remains a priority alongside efforts to reduce the risk of disaster-related losses. Authorities continue to monitor developments closely and mobilize resources to address the anticipated disruptions caused by the evolving drought and potential flooding.