Sri Lanka, Sept. 16 -- Widespread rainfall is expected across the island over the next 10 days, while preparations should be made to face possible heavy rain, landslides and floods, the Meteorology Department said.

Speaking at a media briefing today (16), Department official Ajith Wijayamanne said preparations should be made to face the possible impacts of the El Nino phenomenon, particularly in view of the forecast for heavy rainfall and related hazards.

He said higher rainfall is expected during October and November.

Wijayamanne explained that October and November are generally periods of atmospheric instability in the Bay of Bengal, and that these conditions could intensify under the influence of El Nino.

He highlighted the need t...