Fairly heavy rainfall expected in several areas

Several parts of Sri Lanka are expected to experience intermittent showers and fairly heavy rainfall today, with some areas likely to receive more than 75 mm of rain, according to the Department of Meteorology.

Showers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-Western provinces, as well as in the Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle and Matara districts. Fairly heavy rainfall exceeding 75 mm is possible at some locations.

A few showers are expected in Anuradhapura, Matale and Hambantota districts, while isolated showers or thundershowers may develop after 2 p.m. in parts of Ampara, Monaragala and Batticaloa districts.

The rest of the island is expected to remain mainly dry.

Meanwhile, fairly strong winds of around 40–50 kmph may occur at times over the western slopes of the Central Hills, the Northern, North-Central and North-Western provinces, as well as Trincomalee, Monaragala, Hambantota and Matale districts.

The public has been advised to take necessary precautions against temporary strong winds and lightning associated with thunderstorms.

Sea Conditions

The Meteorological Department has also warned of unsettled sea conditions around several parts of the island during the next 24 hours.

Showers may occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast from Negombo to Matara via Colombo and Galle.

South-westerly winds are expected at speeds of around 30–40 kmph. Wind speeds may increase to 50–60 kmph at times in the sea areas from Mullaitivu to Chilaw via Kankasanthurai and Mannar, and from Hambantota to Pottuvil. Winds in other sea areas around the island may occasionally reach 50 kmph.

Sea conditions are expected to become rough at times in the areas from Mullaitivu to Chilaw and from Hambantota to Pottuvil, while other sea areas may become fairly rough.

Wave heights could increase to around 2.0–2.5 metres in sea areas extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Matara.

Fishing and naval communities operating in the affected sea areas have been urged to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions.