"How Climate Change is Affecting Eastern Sri Lanka", 28 May 2025

In the Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka, where the Gal Oya meets the sea, farmers, fishermen and families are facing an ongoing crisis. It is one shaped by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall and increasing natural disasters. The issue of climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a daily reality for these communities, flooding their homes, destroying their crops and disrupting their livelihoods. ..the surrounding region was hit by major floods as a result of intense cyclonic conditions and heavy rainfall. These weather patterns are becoming more frequent and more extreme. Flash floods, river overflows and dam releases from the reservoir have combined to create devastating downstream impacts. ..The Irrigation Department was forced to open the sluice gates, releasing water into already saturated lands. Farmers downstream, who had just planted their Maha season paddy, watched their fields drown again. Due to the growing challenges there has been a rise in widows as many men have taken their own lives under the pressure of repeated losses. The coast line is also being impacted by climate change. In Oluvil, a harbour built for economic development is closed due to sedimentation. Strong currents and wind patterns have shifted, causing heavy coastal erosion.. Fishermen have lost boats and nets. Tourism in the area has declined. Cyclonic conditions in the Bay of Bengal are becoming more frequent, bringing stronger winds and affecting both lagoon and river fishing.

..Heatwaves are another growing concern. In 2023 and 2024, the region recorded heat indexes above 40°C on several days. ..Small industries such as handloom weaving and food processing are struggling as a result; high temperatures making it difficult to work with many unable to afford cooling systems. ..Water scarcity is affecting not just agriculture but drinking water and electricity generation.