Low-Pressure System Likely to Intensify into Depression; Heavy Rain and Rough Seas Expected
The Department of Meteorology has issued an Amber Advisory, warning that the existing low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours, bringing enhanced rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions around Sri Lanka.
According to Bulletin No: 02 TCA/26/01/06/02, issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre at 12.30 p.m. on January 6, the weather advisory is valid until 12.30 p.m. on January 7, 2026, covering both land and sea areas around the island.
Meteorologists stated that the developing system is expected to move towards the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, resulting in intensified showery conditions across the island from January 8, particularly affecting the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva, and Central provinces.
Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Forecast for Land Areas
For land areas, showers or thundershowers are expected at times in the Uva Province and in the Nuwara Eliya, Matale, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa, and Ampara districts. The Department warned that heavy rainfall exceeding 100 millimetres is likely at some locations in these areas.
In addition, strong winds reaching speeds of around 50 kmph may occur at times over the eastern slopes of the central hills, as well as in the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, and Eastern provinces. Similar windy conditions are also expected in the Hambantota, Gampaha, Colombo, and Monaragala districts.
The public has been advised to take adequate safety precautions to minimize potential damage caused by heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning during thundershowers.
Rough Sea Conditions Expected
For sea areas, winds are expected to be north-easterly, with speeds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph, occasionally increasing to 50–60 kmph in sea areas off the coast extending from Beruwala to Matara via Colombo, Puttalam, Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee, and Pottuvil.
The Department warned that sea areas along this coastal belt will be rough at times, while other sea areas around the island may remain moderate. Additionally, wave heights may increase to about 2.5–3.0 metres in sea areas off the coast from Kankasanthurai to Pottuvil via Trincomalee.
Naval and fishing communities have been strongly urged to remain vigilant and pay close attention to future weather forecasts and official bulletins before engaging in sea activities.
The Department of Meteorology stated that it is continuously monitoring the development and movement of the system and will issue further updates as necessary. The general public is advised to stay informed through official channels and remain prepared as weather conditions may deteriorate rapidly.
