Several spells of showers will occur in some provinces

Several spells of showers are expected in the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces, as well as in the Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts, according to the latest weather forecast.

A few showers may occur in the North-Western Province, while showers or thundershowers are likely at several places in the Uva Province and in the Ampara, Batticaloa and Hambantota districts after 2.00 p.m.

Mainly dry weather is expected to prevail in other parts of the island.

Meanwhile, fairly strong winds of around 30–40 kmph may occur at times over the western slopes of the Central Hills, North-Central and North-Western provinces, as well as in the Trincomalee, Hambantota and Matale districts.

The public has been advised to take adequate precautions to minimize possible damage caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

The Department of Meteorology also noted that the Sun will be directly overhead Sri Lanka between August 28 and September 7 due to its apparent southward movement. Today, the Sun is expected to be directly overhead areas including Neriyakulam, Punewa, Kebithigollewa, Pankulam and Sinhapura at around 12.10 p.m.

Rough Seas and Possible Coastal Inundation

Showers may occur at several places in the sea areas extending from Chilaw to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle during the next 24 hours.

Winds over the sea will be south-westerly at speeds of 30–40 kmph. Wind speeds may increase to 50–60 kmph at times in the sea areas extending from Hambantota to Pottuvil.

Winds may also reach speeds of up to 50 kmph in the sea areas extending from Kankasanthurai to Puttalam via Mannar.

The sea areas off the coast from Hambantota to Pottuvil are expected to be rough at times, while the sea areas from Kankasanthurai to Puttalam via Mannar may be fairly rough.

Wave heights could increase to around 2.0–3.0 metres in the sea areas extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Matara.

Authorities have warned of a possibility of seawater inundation in low-lying coastal areas from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle.

Naval and fishing communities operating in the affected sea areas, along with coastal communities in the aforementioned areas, have been urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.