Temperatures are expected to reach between 39°C and 45°C in several districts, with the Department of Meteorology warning that the heat level will require public attention.

The prolonged dry spell has severely affected communities in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Monaragala, while parts of Jaffna, Ampara and Hambantota are also experiencing the effects of the drought.

With some areas having gone without rain for nearly four months, numerous small tanks have completely dried up, creating severe difficulties for both communities and animals, according to officials.

Around 30 acres of paddy cultivation have reportedly been destroyed due to the lack of water InRotawewa, Mihintale, according to officials. The nearby Rotawewa, Dunwattegama and Ihalagama tanks have also completely dried up.

Accordingly, residents in Wellankulama, Mihintale, are reportedly turning to groundwater sources to meet their daily water needs.

Meanwhile, several tanks in Thanamalwila, Monaragala, including Kiwul Ara and Indi Pelessa, have also dried up completely.

Farmers in the area have suffered heavy losses, with crops including brinjals, maize, bananas, pumpkin, tomatoes and chillies reportedly destroyed by the prolonged dry conditions.