600,000 people hit by worst drought in a decade
At least 600,000 people in Sri Lanka have been hit by the worst drought since 2006 in nearly 13 of the 25 districts, disaster management officials said.
“They are hit by shortages of drinking water and damage to crop,” Pradeep Kodippily, spokesman for the disaster management centre, said.
Most irrigation tanks in the island have run dry, the Irrigation Department said. According to the Water authorities, restrictions have to be placed on the drinking water supplies.
The hydro powered electricity capability has also been affected. The government has requested that all air conditioners be set at 26 degrees in view of the electricity supply being affected by the drought.
The Meteorological Department said a temporary reprieve to the dry weather may happen from January 20 with some showers expected to fall.
Lankan President Maithripala Sirisenas office said that UN agencies – Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) – called on him yesterday to assure international assistance to extend drought relief.
(PTI)

Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Duminda Dissanayake remanded until May 29 over gold-plated T56 firearm May 24, 2025
- Sri Lanka probing use of Rs. 22 Trillion obtained through loans May 24, 2025
- Sri Lankan PM assures no land will be taken from people in North and East May 24, 2025
- Malini Fonseka passes away May 24, 2025
- Deputy Commissioner and two DMT officials arrested with Rs. 4 Million in bribes May 23, 2025