Weather conditions across Sri Lanka are expected to deteriorate rapidly as the depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and continues to move closer to the island. According to the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology, the deep depression was centered near latitude 5.4°N and longitude 85.3°E at 5.30 a.m. on January 8, placing it about 420 kilometres southeast of Pottuvil. By 10.00 a.m. today, the system had moved further closer and was located approximately 300 kilometres southeast of Pottuvil, indicating a steady west-northwestward movement.
Meteorological observations and model guidance suggest that the system is very likely to continue its west-northwestward track across the southwest Bay of Bengal and is expected to cross the Sri Lankan coast between Hambantota and Kalmunai during the evening hours of January 9, between 5.30 p.m. and 11.30 p.m. As a result, showery and windy conditions over the island are expected to intensify from today, particularly affecting the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva and Central provinces. The prevailing weather situation may lead to significant disruptions to daily life, transport and maritime activities.
Authorities warn that considerable damage may occur in several areas due to strong winds, heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions. Temporary shelters, huts and light structures are especially vulnerable, with roofs and roofing sheets at risk of being damaged or destroyed. Power and communication lines may be affected, leading to possible interruptions, while tree branches may break and large avenue trees could be uprooted. Agricultural sectors may also suffer, with potential damage to paddy fields, banana and papaya plantations, as well as other orchards. Harbours and yachts may be damaged due to strong winds and turbulent seas. In addition, the risk of flash flooding in vulnerable locations and sea water inundation in low-lying coastal areas remains high as the system approaches the coast.
The Department of Meteorology urges coastal hutment dwellers to move to safer locations as a precautionary measure, while residents in affected areas are advised to remain indoors during periods of severe weather. People living in hilly regions, particularly landslide-prone areas, and those residing in low-lying river basins are requested to remain vigilant and closely monitor local conditions. Drivers and road users in hilly areas are advised to exercise extreme caution due to the possibility of reduced visibility, fallen trees and slippery road surfaces. The public is also warned to stay away from fallen power lines and to avoid using wired telephones and connected electrical appliances during thunderstorms to minimize the risk of accidents.
Maritime activities are expected to be severely affected. Naval and fishing communities have been strictly warned not to venture into deep and shallow sea areas around the island until further notice. In addition, vessels are advised not to operate in sea areas bounded between latitudes 02°N and 13°N and longitudes 76°E and 88°E, as conditions in these regions are expected to be extremely hazardous. Fishermen and naval personnel currently operating in these areas are urged to return to the nearest coast or move to safer waters immediately to avoid life-threatening situations.
The Department of Meteorology confirms that it is continuously monitoring the behavior and movement of the deep depression using satellite data and other observational tools. The general public is strongly requested to remain attentive to future forecasts, warnings and official bulletins issued by the Department and to follow instructions from local disaster management authorities. Emergency assistance should be sought through relevant local authorities as needed, as the country prepares for the impacts of this developing severe weather system.
