Weather conditions across Sri Lanka are expected to remain highly unsettled on January 9 as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal continues its west-northwestward movement toward the island. According to the Department of Meteorology, the system was located about 250 kilometres southeast of Pottuvil at 2.00 p.m. on January 8 and is very likely to cross the Sri Lankan coast between Hambantota and Batticaloa during the evening hours of January 9, between 5.30 p.m. and 11.30 p.m.
As the deep depression approaches, cloudy skies are expected to prevail over most parts of the island throughout the day. Widespread showers and thundershowers will occur at times in the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva, Central, North-Western and Southern provinces, while several other areas may also experience intermittent rainfall. These conditions are expected to disrupt daily activities and travel in many regions.
Very heavy rainfall is forecast for parts of the Eastern Province, with accumulations exceeding 150 millimetres likely at some locations. In addition, very heavy rain is expected in Mullaittivu, Vavuniya, Kilinochchi and Polonnaruwa districts. Heavy rainfall exceeding 100 millimetres is also likely in parts of the Uva Province and in the districts of Nuwara-Eliya, Matale and Mannar. Such intense rainfall may lead to rapidly changing local conditions, particularly in areas that have already experienced persistent showers in recent days.
Strong and gusty winds are another significant feature of the forecast. Very strong winds with speeds of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour, and gusts reaching up to 70 kilometres per hour, can be expected at times over the eastern slopes of the central hills. Similar wind conditions are likely to affect the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, Central, Uva, Eastern and Southern provinces, as well as the Gampaha and Colombo districts. These winds may cause temporary disruptions, including the loosening of roof sheets, damage to weak structures and the breaking of tree branches.
The Department of Meteorology urges the general public to take adequate precautions during this period of adverse weather. People are advised to remain alert during thundershowers, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rain or strong winds, and be cautious of falling objects such as tree branches or debris. Special care is advised for those living in exposed or low-lying areas, as weather conditions may change rapidly.
Authorities continue to closely monitor the movement and intensity of the deep depression, and the public is encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates and advisories as the system approaches the Sri Lankan coastline.
