Sri Lanka Braces for Persistent Rains as Atmospheric Disturbance Lingers
Weather conditions across Sri Lanka are expected to remain volatile as a low-level atmospheric disturbance to the east of the island continues to drive heavy rainfall. In its latest bulletin issued today, January 3, 2026, the Department of Meteorology confirmed that showery conditions will persist particularly in the Eastern, Northern, and Uva provinces over the coming days.
The Department that showers will occur at times across the Eastern, Central, North-central, and Uva provinces, as well as the Hambantota district. Significant rainfall is anticipated, with fairly heavy falls of approximately 75 mm likely in several areas, including the Eastern and Uva provinces and the Matale, Nuwara-Eliya, and Polonnaruwa districts.
Residents in the Northern province should also prepare for intermittent weather, with several spells of showers forecast throughout the day. For the rest of the island, the atmosphere remains unstable, with showers or thundershowers expected to develop at various locations after 2:00 p.m.
Beyond the rainfall, the Met Department has flagged an increase in wind activity. Fairly strong winds, ranging between 30-40 kmph, are expected at times over the eastern slopes of the central hills. Similar windy conditions are forecast for the Northern, North-central, and North-western provinces, as well as the Trincomalee, Hambantota, and Monaragala districts.
As thundershowers become more frequent, the general public is strongly advised to take necessary precautions to safeguard against lightning strikes and damages caused by temporary, localized strong winds. Authorities recommend staying indoors during active lightning and securing loose outdoor structures.
