Monsoon upwelling brings cold, nutrient-rich waters to Southern Sri Lanka

A striking seasonal phenomenon is unfolding off the southern coast of Sri Lanka, as cold, nutrient-rich waters rise to the ocean surface, boosting marine productivity in the region.

- BY IFHAM NIZAM

According to renowned oceanographer Professor Charitha Pattiaratchi from the University of Western Australia (UWA), this occurrence is a typical feature of the southwest monsoon season and is closely linked to Sri Lanka's unique island geography.

"This feature of a colder, higher-chlorophyll filament extending to the east off the southern coast is typical for this time of year," Prof. Pattiaratchi said. "It's caused by a combination of ocean currents, wind patterns, and the shape of the island itself — what we call the Island Mass Effect."