The current weather over Sri Lanka is being influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a key atmospheric feature where winds from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres meet. Due to its influence, an increase in rainfall activity is expected across the island after 06 May.
For today, showers or thundershowers are likely to occur in most parts of the country after 1.00 p.m., bringing widespread rainfall during the afternoon and evening hours. Cloudy skies will prevail over the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Uva provinces, as well as in the Ampara district, with morning showers also expected in these regions.
Fairly heavy rainfall exceeding 50 mm is likely at some locations in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Uva, and Eastern provinces, and in the districts of Galle, Matara, and Polonnaruwa. Meanwhile, fairly strong winds of 30–40 kmph may occur at times over the Northern and North-central provinces and in the Hambantota district.
Misty conditions can be expected during the early morning in parts of the Central and Uva provinces and in the Ampara district. The public is advised to take necessary precautions against lightning, temporary strong winds, and localized flooding during thundershowers.
Sea Areas Forecast (Next 24 Hours)
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas extending from Mannar to Batticaloa via Puttalam, Colombo, Galle, Hambantota, and Pottuvil. Winds will be south-westerly at 25–35 kmph, increasing up to 50–55 kmph at times in sea areas from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar, and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
Sea conditions in these areas will be rough at times, while other surrounding sea areas will remain moderate. Temporary strong gusty winds and very rough seas are expected during thundershowers, and naval and fishing communities are advised to remain vigilant.