Rough Seas and Showers Expected Around Sri Lanka’s Coastal Waters
Issued at 2.00 p.m. on 18 December 2025
The Department of Meteorology has issued a weather forecast for sea areas around Sri Lanka for the next 24 hours, warning of showers, strong winds, and rough sea conditions in several coastal regions.
According to the forecast issued at 2.00 p.m. on December 18, showers will occur at several locations in the sea areas off the coast stretching from Kankasanthurai to Hambantota via Trincomalee and Pottuvil. In addition, showers or thundershowers are likely in other sea areas around the island, particularly during the evening or night.
North-easterly winds are expected to prevail, with wind speeds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph. At times, wind speeds may increase up to 50 kmph in sea areas off the coast extending from Colombo to Batticaloa via Puttalam, Kankasanthurai, and Trincomalee.
The sea conditions in these areas are expected to be rough at times, while the remaining sea areas around the island will experience moderate seas. The Meteorology Department also cautioned that temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas may occur during thundershowers.
Naval and fishing communities, as well as small craft operators, are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions when venturing into the sea during this period.
