SriLanka, June 14 -- Meteorologists have predicted that the El Nino phenomenon, triggered by rising temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean, will begin to have a global impact after February next year, with increased rainfall patterns expected in several regions.

However, climate officials say the likelihood of Sri Lanka experiencing severe adverse effects remains low.

Mr. Leel Randeniya, Director of the Climate Change Secretariat of the Ministry of Environment, said Sri Lanka is currently under the influence of the southwest monsoon, which will continue until September. He noted that while occasional heavy rain showers may occur in July and August, overall monsoon rainfall is expected to gradually decrease.

He added that during the...