Sea Weather Forecast: Fairly Rough Seas and Strong Winds Expected Around Sri Lanka
Issued at 2.00 p.m. on 19 December 2025
The Department of Meteorology has issued a marine weather forecast for the next 24 hours, warning of showers, strong winds, and fairly rough sea conditions in several sea areas around Sri Lanka.
According to the forecast, showers are expected at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Batticaloa to Hambantota via Pottuvil. Meanwhile, showers or thundershowers may occur at a few locations in the sea areas off the coast from Colombo to Matara via Galle, particularly during the evening or night.
North-easterly winds will prevail across the surrounding sea areas, with wind speeds generally ranging between 30 and 40 kmph. However, wind speeds may increase to between 45 and 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Colombo to Mannar via Puttalam, creating hazardous conditions for small vessels.
As a result of the strengthening winds, the sea will be fairly rough at times in the maritime zones from Colombo to Mannar via Puttalam. Sea conditions in other areas around the island are expected to remain moderate.
The Meteorology Department cautions that temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can occur during thundershowers. Fishermen and naval communities are advised to exercise caution and stay alert to changing weather conditions before heading out to sea.
