Officials warn that Sri Lanka may endure what could be the worst drought since the early 1970s.
Disaster Management Minister Anura Yapa said that the government is preparing to deal with repercussion through efforts such as food and water relief. However, water conservation efforts could help mitigate the crisis.
It is expected that rice cultivation will decline. The Department of Irrigation ceases water distribution for cultivation and is rather prioritizing access to drinking water.
Karunarathna Paranavithanage, Deputy Information Minister says that conflicts may arise. In the past access to wells and streams have created conflict.
Drought conditions could be acute from January till April.