Today is World Meteorological Day
by Nilma Dole
Today is World Meteorological Day and Sri Lanka's Meteorological
Department will focus on a theme titled 'Observing Our Planet for a
Better Future'.
A seminar in this connection will be conducted with the participation
of school teachers, volunteers and individuals who observe the
meteorological parameters around the country.
A Spokesperson for the MET Department G. Samarasinghe said "In Sri
Lanka during 2007 and 2006 65% and 62% of the total disaster management
funds were spent on rehabilitation and reconstruction for floods while
droughts were second place with 8% and 7% ." Ninety per cent of natural
disasters are weather, climate and water related-hampering
socio-economic growth because funds which can be used for development is
spent on rehabilitation and reconstruction.
The Director General of the Meteorological Department D. H. P.
Dharmaratne said, "The Meteorological Department is equipped with
technology and gathers data to detect weather patterns but Sri Lanka's
weather patterns are becoming more severe and unpredictable".
It was highlighted that through the observations and forecasts based
on these weather patterns, emergency managers and policy makers have to
develop mitigating as well as precautionary and prepared strategies to
face these challenges. |