With forecasts indicating that the Northern Province may face severe impacts due to a rare and dangerous atmospheric disturbance expected in the coming days, an urgent preparedness meeting on disaster mitigation and response was held today – 24 November 2025, Monday, at 5:00 p.m. at the Governor’s Secretariat, presided over by the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
At the outset, Prof. N. Pratheepanraja, Head of the Department of Geography at the University of Jaffna, delivered a detailed explanation of the current weather conditions.
“Two wind circulations are merging to form a low-pressure system which is expected to move across Sri Lanka. An event of this nature is occurring now after 130 years. This is a rare and dangerous weather phenomenon. As a result, very heavy rainfall and strong winds may occur in various parts of the country, including the Northern and Eastern Provinces,” he cautioned.
He further noted that because the soil is already saturated from previous rains, strong winds could more easily uproot trees. He also pointed out that the sea level is higher during this period, which may hinder the drainage of floodwater.
The current situation in each of the five districts was then reviewed:
Jaffna: Owing to a week of rainfall, 297 people from 86 families have been affected, and 9 houses have been partially damaged. One temporary relief center has been established for the affected people, according to the Jaffna District Secretary.
Mullaitivu: Trees have fallen in several areas. The insufficient support from the Timber Corporation to remove these fallen trees was brought to the Governor’s attention.
Kilinochchi: The Iranamadu Tank is currently only one-fourth full, and therefore there is no flood risk at present. The situation is under control, the District Secretary reported.
Vavuniya and Mannar: No major difficulties are currently reported, and preparedness measures are in place.
The G.C.E. Advanced Level examinations are progressing without disruption. The Secretary to the Ministry of Education stated that they are prepared to coordinate with the Department of Examinations should a disaster situation arise. During the discussion, the Governor instructed that schools without examination centers and public halls be used as temporary shelters for displaced families.
The Provincial Irrigation Director reported that water levels in 52 of the 54 tanks under the Northern Province’s administration remain below 25 percent. Water would spill only if rainfall exceeds 300 millimeters. He also noted that since sea levels have not yet risen significantly, three spill gates in the Jaffna District have been opened.
Highlighting past challenges in transporting patients within island regions, the Provincial Health Director said arrangements are being made to ensure emergency medical services with the assistance of the Navy and Air Force.
Local authorities were instructed to clear canals and waterways ahead of rising sea levels so floodwaters can drain quickly. The Governor directed the Deputy Chief Secretary – Finance to release necessary funds to local authorities to carry out disaster preparedness measures.
Representatives of the tri-forces assured that rescue teams are on standby.
The Governor emphasized that during disaster situations, all Divisional and District Secretariats must remain prepared to assist the public around the clock.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary of Northern Province, the Secretary to the Governor, Secretaries of Provincial Ministries, Deputy Chief Secretaries – Planning and Finance, representatives of the tri-forces, District Secretaries, and other relevant officials.
