A Review of Recent Changes in Rainfall Trend in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The rainfall trend provides useful information for effective planning, and management of water resources and agriculture which also gives an insight into the climate change of a region. The rainfall trend varies with the use of different data periods, and therefore, this review attempted to analyse only the recent rainfall trend over Sri Lanka using published literature. The review examined 15 recently published manuscripts for monotonic trends and statistical tests used. Overall, the review identified the increasing tendency of rainfall in the entire country prominently towards the eastern segment. The review also comprehends upward trends of First Inter-Monsoon and North-East monsoon over the country. It is proposed to introduce effective water management measures to harness the opportunities created by increased rainfall and preparedness measures to reduce the anticipated risk.