Several spells of showers are expected today (17) in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-Western provinces, as well as in the districts of Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, according to the Department of Meteorology.
Showers or thundershowers may also develop at a few locations in the Uva and Eastern provinces after 2.00 p.m.
Fairly strong winds with speeds of 30 to 40 kmph are expected at times over the western slopes of the central hills and in the Southern, Northern and North-Central provinces, as well as in Trincomalee District.
The public has been advised to take necessary precautions against possible damage caused by localized strong winds and lightning associated with thundershowers.
Meanwhile, showers or thundershowers are likely at several locations in the sea areas off the coast from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle.
South-westerly winds are expected to prevail over sea areas, with wind speeds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph. Wind speeds may increase up to 50–60 kmph at times in the sea areas extending from Kankasanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
Winds may also strengthen up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas from Trincomalee to Kankasanthurai via Mullaitivu and from Kalpitiya to Galle via Colombo.
The sea areas off the coasts extending from Kankasanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota are expected to be rough at times, while sea areas from Trincomalee to Kankasanthurai via Mullaitivu and from Kalpitiya to Galle via Colombo will be fairly rough.
Fishermen and naval operators are advised to remain vigilant, as temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can occur during thundershowers.
