The Department of Meteorology Sri Lanka says the low-pressure area located northeast of Sri Lanka continues to persist, although the system is expected to gradually move away from the island over the next 36 hours.
Cloudy skies are expected over most parts of the country today (15), with showers or thundershowers forecast at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-Western and Northern provinces, as well as in the districts of Anuradhapura, Galle and Matara.
Very heavy rainfall of around 150 mm is likely in parts of the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-Western provinces, while rainfall exceeding 100 mm is expected in some areas of Galle and Matara districts. Showers or thundershowers may also occur at several places in the Uva and Eastern provinces after 1.00 p.m.
The public has been advised to take precautions against temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Meanwhile, the Department warned that wind speeds and rainy conditions over sea areas surrounding the island are expected to intensify in the coming days due to the influence of the low-pressure system.
Naval and fishing communities have been urged to remain vigilant.
Showers or thundershowers are expected at times in sea areas around the island today, with southwesterly winds reaching speeds of 25–35 km/h. Wind speeds may increase up to 50–60 km/h at times in sea areas extending from Trincomalee to Pottuvil via Kankasanthurai, Puttalam, Colombo, Galle and Hambantota.
Sea areas along these coastal stretches are expected to be rough at times, while other surrounding waters may remain moderate.
Swell waves between 2.0 and 2.5 metres in height are also likely in sea areas from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can also be expected during thundershowers, the Department added.
