Sea temperatures around Sri Lanka have risen by 1°C, raising concerns over worsening weather conditions as the effects of the El Niño phenomenon continue to impact the country, according to the Department of Meteorology.

Authorities say the 1°C rise in sea temperatures around Sri Lanka is being observed amid broader warming across the Pacific Ocean, where temperatures have reportedly increased by around 3°C.

The El Niño conditions are expected to make the next eight months a critical period for Sri Lanka, with several districts already experiencing severe drought.

Both daytime and nighttime temperatures have risen, while authorities warn that some affected areas may not receive rainfall until the end of September.

The prolonged dry conditions are already affecting water-dependent livelihoods in seven districts. 

The Department of Irrigation said that while drinking water supplies from reservoirs and tanks will be maintained, the release of water for agricultural activities may have to be restricted.

The Disaster Management Centre said the dry weather has so far affected 81,605 people across 22 Divisional Secretariat areas in seven districts.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as Sri Lanka faces the possibility of prolonged heat and drought conditions in the months ahead.