Contradictory Weather Warnings Spark Dispute Between Disaster Management Centre and Meteorology Department

29-Dec-2025

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The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has warned that severe weather conditions will prevail across the country on Dec 29 and 30. However, the Department of Meteorology has stated that no major threat exists.

United People’s Power (SJB) Kurunegala District MP Nalin Bandara said the contradictory statements highlight clear discrepancies between state institutions.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo on Dec 28, he said the public suffered due to the government’s failure to heed warnings issued by the Department of Meteorology. He added that had precautionary measures been taken in advance, significant loss of life caused by Cyclone Ditwah could have been avoided.

While the DMC has warned of abnormal weather conditions on Dec 29 and on Dec 30, the Meteorology Department maintains that only rainy conditions are expected, without a serious threat.

MP Bandara said the conflicting claims raise serious concerns about coordination and accountability among government agencies.