The Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for several regions of the country, predicting showers or thundershowers at times in the Northern, North-central, Eastern, and Uva provinces, as well as in Matale, Nuwara-Eliya, and Hambantota districts.

Showers or thundershowers are expected to occur at several places elsewhere, particularly during the afternoon or night.

Heavy rainfall, with amounts exceeding 75mm, is expected in certain areas, including the Eastern and Uva provinces, and in Matale, Nuwara-Eliya, Polonnaruwa, Galle, Matara, Kalutara, and Rathnapura districts.

In addition, fairly strong winds of 30-40 km/h are anticipated at times over the Northern, North-central, Eastern, and North-western provinces, along with Matale, Nuwara-Eliya, and Hambantota districts.

The general public is urged to take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of damage caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Weather Forecast for Sea Areas Around the Island (Next 24 Hours)

The weather forecast for sea areas surrounding the island indicates that showers and thundershowers are likely at several places in the sea areas extending from Mannar to Hambantota, including Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa. Other sea areas around the island may experience showers or thundershowers, particularly in the afternoon or night.

Winds:
Winds will generally be north-easterly at speeds of 30-40 km/h. However, wind speeds may increase to 50-55 km/h at times in the sea areas extending from Colombo to Trincomalee via Mannar and Kankasanthurai, and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota. Winds in other sea areas around the island could reach 45-50 km/h at times.

State of the Sea:
The sea areas off the coasts from Colombo to Trincomalee via Mannar and Kankasanthurai, and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota, will be rough at times. Other sea areas around the island may be fairly rough at times.

Safety Advisory:
Mariners are advised to exercise caution while navigating these sea areas due to the rough conditions and the likelihood of showers or thundershowers.