Atmospheric Disturbance Continues to Shape Island Weather Through January 4th
The low-level atmospheric disturbance situated to the east of Sri Lanka remains the primary driver of the island’s weather patterns. According to the latest report issued by the Department of Meteorology at 2:00 p.m. today, January 3, 2026, showery conditions are expected to further enhance over the Northern, Eastern, and Uva Provinces starting from January 5th.
For the next 24 hours, consistent showers are forecast to occur at times across the Eastern and Uva provinces, as well as in the Polonnaruwa, Matale, and Nuwara-Eliya districts. Additionally, the Northern province, Anuradhapura, and Hambantota districts will experience several spells of showers throughout the day.
In other parts of the island, the morning is expected to be relatively clear, though showers or thundershowers may develop in a few locations after 2:00 p.m.
A notable feature of the current weather system is the increase in wind activity. Strong winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph are anticipated at times over several regions, including The eastern slopes of the central hills. Northern, North-central, North-western, and Eastern provinces. Hambantota, Gampaha, Colombo, and Monaragala districts.
With the possibility of thundershowers in the afternoon, the general public is encouraged to take standard precautions. These measures are intended to minimize potential impacts from localized strong winds and lightning activity that often accompany such weather systems.
As the disturbance to the east continues to influence the region, the Department of Meteorology will provide further updates regarding the anticipated increase in rainfall early next week.
