El Niño Threatens Severe Water Scarcity, Sri Lanka May Need to Desalinate Seawater

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has warned that the upcoming El Niño climate phenomenon could be unprecedentedly severe for Sri Lanka, posing a significant risk of major water sources drying up. DMC Additional Secretary K.G.B. Dharmathilaka stated that the country may even need to consider desalinating seawater to meet drinking water requirements if predictions hold true. In anticipation of these potential impacts, the government is reportedly strengthening water management measures and establishing a coordinated mechanism for preparedness. This proactive approach aims to address the severe consequences of a potentially harsher-than-usual dry spell.