Paddy cultivation and power generation could be affected if dry weather continues: Met. Department

People have been requested to refrain from exerting themselves during these days as the heat could result in various ailments    

By Yohan Perera   

Sri Lanka’s paddy cultivation could be affected while generation of hydro power could be reduced if the dry spell which is currently prevailing continues, Director General Department of Meteorology Athula Karunanayake said yesterday.   

“Sri Lanka’s paddy cultivation largely depends on rain and the cultivation could be affected if the current dry spell continues. Even the hydro power generation could be reduced,” Mr. Karunanayake told media.   

He said the dry spell could continue until October. Sri Lanka has currently entered into the first phase of the inter-monsoon period. Rains have reduced this time of the year as formation of clouds are less. In addition, the El Nino is being developed in the Pacific Ocean. This could also bring in a dry spell to Sri Lanka. However, there may be few thundershowers around mid-April as it is the usual case every year. Heavy rains could be expected around October and November,” he added.   

Also, he said people should refrain from exerting themselves during these days as the heat could result in various ailments.   

Meanwhile, rains which could exceed 50mm was forecast in the Uva, Batticaloa, Ampara and Hambantota districts and Western, Sabaragamuwa, Galle and Matara districts.   

The highest rainfall of 77mm was recorded from Dehiowita in the Kegalle District while 29mm of rain was reported from Deniyaya, 26mm from Udugoda, 23mm from Dellawa and 18mm from Deraniyagala as of yesterday afternoon.