Rough Seas Expected in Several Maritime Areas Around Sri Lanka
Issued at 05.30 a.m. on 18 December 2025
Showery conditions are expected in several sea areas around Sri Lanka during the next 24 hours, according to the Department of Meteorology.
Showers are forecast at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Mannar to Hambantota via Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee and Pottuvil. In addition, showers or thundershowers may occur in other surrounding sea areas, particularly during the evening or night.
Winds over the sea areas will be north-easterly, with speeds generally ranging between 30 and 40 kmph. However, wind speeds may increase up to 50–55 kmph at times in sea areas off the coast extending from Colombo to Galle via Puttalam, Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee, Pottuvil and Hambantota.
As a result of these conditions, the sea areas from Colombo to Galle via Puttalam, Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee, Pottuvil and Hambantota are expected to be rough at times. Sea conditions in other areas around the island are expected to remain moderate.
The Department of Meteorology warns that temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can occur during thundershowers and advises fishermen and naval communities to exercise caution when engaging in sea activities.