Rough Seas and Strong Winds Expected Over Next 24 Hours
Issued at 05.30 a.m. on 22 December 2025
The Department of Meteorology has issued a marine weather advisory for sea areas around Sri Lanka, warning of rough sea conditions and strong north-easterly winds during the next 24 hours.
Showers are expected at several locations in the sea areas off the coast extending from Batticaloa to Galle via Hambantota, which may temporarily reduce visibility for fishing and other maritime activities.
Winds over the surrounding sea areas will be north-easterly, with average wind speeds of 30–40 kmph. However, wind speeds may increase to 50–55 kmph at times, particularly in the sea areas from Balapitiya to Mannar via Colombo and Puttalam, and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
As a result, the sea areas off the coast extending from Balapitiya to Mannar via Colombo and Puttalam, as well as from Matara to Batticaloa via Hambantota, are expected to be rough at times. Other sea areas around the island will experience moderate sea conditions.
Fishermen and maritime operators are advised to exercise caution, especially in affected coastal waters, and remain alert to further updates issued by the Department of Meteorology.
