Weather conditions on election day

As the country navigates the south-west monsoon period, weather forecasts indicate that the next two days will bring varying conditions across different locations in the country.

Mr. Meril Mendis, Deputy Director of Weather Forecasting & Early Warning at the Department of Meteorology, told the TimesOnline that light showers are expected in the south-western region, including the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western Provinces, as well as in Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya districts from today to Sunday. 

Tomorrow afternoon, scattered showers are likely in Badulla, Ampara, Batticaloa, and Trincomalee districts. While no heavy rainfall is anticipated, warm weather will persist in the Northern and North-Central Provinces, providing a mix of conditions, Mr. Mendis added. 

The Election Commission (EC) has confirmed that all necessary precautions are in place to address potential disaster situations arising from unexpected weather conditions during the presidential election.

Its Chairman R.M.A.L. Rathnayake emphasized that particular attention has been given to districts at higher risk for emergencies. Starting today, the EC will receive weather updates from the Meteorological Department every three hours to ensure timely responses.

Meanwhile, a special joint program has been established by the Disaster Management Center (DMC) and the Election Commission to prevent disruptions during the presidential election due to unexpected calamities, such as adverse weather, said the Director (Awareness) of the DMC, Pradeep Kodippili.

The Special Election Joint Disaster Operation Unit, set up in collaboration with the Triforce Police and other stakeholders, will be operational from September 19 to September 22, 2024.

In case of election disruptions caused by disasters, the public can contact the DMC through emergency hotline 117 or specific emergency numbers. The unit will work swiftly to remove obstacles and ensure the smooth running of the election.

An emergency disaster response plan is also available on the DMC website, https://www.dmc.gov.lk/