A Red-level weather warning has been issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology as a developing depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal poses a serious threat to both land and sea areas around Sri Lanka. According to the bulletin issued at 10.00 p.m. on 7 January 2026, the depression was centered near latitude 5.0°N and longitude 86.8°E at around 5.30 p.m. the same day, placing it approximately 570 kilometres southeast of Pottuvil. Meteorological authorities report that the system is moving west-northwestwards and is expected to approach the eastern coast of the island within the next 36 hours. Forecast models indicate that the depression is likely to intensify further into a deep depression within the next 12 hours, significantly increasing the risk of severe weather conditions across many parts of the country.
As the system strengthens and moves closer to Sri Lanka, showery conditions over the island are expected to intensify from tomorrow, January 8, particularly affecting the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva and Central provinces. Heavy rainfall, strong winds and thunderstorm activity are likely to cause widespread disruptions and damage, especially in vulnerable regions. People living in hilly areas, particularly those in landslide-prone locations, as well as residents in low-lying areas within river basins, are urged to remain extremely vigilant due to the heightened risk of landslides, flash floods and sudden water level rises. Drivers and road users in hill country areas are also advised to exercise caution, as adverse weather may result in poor visibility, slippery roads, falling rocks and debris.
Authorities warn that strong winds associated with the system may cause damage to huts, temporary shelters and other light structures, including the destruction of rooftops and roofing sheets. Power and communication lines may be damaged, leading to possible service interruptions, while breaking tree branches and the uprooting of large roadside trees could pose serious dangers to pedestrians and motorists. Agricultural sectors are also at risk, with potential damage expected to paddy cultivation, banana and papaya plantations, and fruit orchards. In coastal and harbor areas, damage to yachts and small vessels is possible due to rough seas and strong winds. Flash flooding may occur in urban and rural areas, while seawater inundation remains a concern in low-lying coastal zones close to the shore.
In light of these risks, coastal hutment dwellers have been advised to move to safer locations, while residents in affected areas are encouraged to remain indoors as much as possible during periods of severe weather. The general public is urged to be alert to the dangers posed by fallen trees and downed power lines and to avoid using wired telephones and electrically connected appliances during thunderstorms to reduce the risk of lightning-related accidents. People are also requested to closely follow instructions issued by local disaster management authorities and to seek emergency assistance when necessary. Continuous attention to future weather advisories issued by the Department of Meteorology is strongly emphasized, as conditions may change rapidly.
Marine conditions are expected to be extremely hazardous during the warning period. Naval and fishing communities have been strictly warned not to venture into deep and shallow sea areas extending from Kankasanthurai to Hambantota via Trincomalee and Pottuvil from January 7 until further notice. From January 8 onwards, all deep and shallow sea areas around the island are considered unsafe for fishing and naval operations. In addition, sea areas bounded between latitudes 02°N and 13°N and longitudes 80°E and 90°E are declared dangerous, and those currently operating in these regions are advised to return to the nearest coast or move to safer areas immediately.
The Department of Meteorology continues to closely monitor the behavior of this system and will issue further forecasts and bulletins as required. The general public and maritime communities are strongly urged to remain attentive to official warnings and to take all necessary precautions to minimize risks and potential damage during this extreme weather situation.
