Deep Depression weakened into a Depression over southwest Bay of Bengal off northeast Sri Lanka coast
The deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal has weakened into a depression while moving west-northwestwards at a speed of about 12 km per hour, according to the latest update issued on 10 January 2026. As of 5.30 a.m. Sri Lanka time, the system was centred over the southwest Bay of Bengal off the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, near latitude 8.8°N and longitude 81.6°E. It was located approximately 50 kilometres east-northeast of Trincomalee, 120 kilometres north of Batticaloa, and 210 kilometres north of Pottuvil.
Meteorologists indicate that the depression is likely to continue moving west-northwestwards and cross the northern Sri Lanka coastline between Trincomalee and Jaffna around noon or during the afternoon today. Although the system has weakened, it is still expected to cause significant weather impacts across several parts of the island, particularly in northern regions.
Cloudy skies are expected over much of the northern half of Sri Lanka, creating favourable conditions for widespread rainfall. Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Northern Province and in the Puttalam, Anuradhapura, and Trincomalee districts. In some locations within the Northern Province, heavy rainfall exceeding 100 millimetres is likely, raising concerns over localized flooding and waterlogging.
In addition, several spells of showers are expected in the Kurunegala, Polonnaruwa, and Matale districts, while isolated showers or thundershowers may develop in other parts of the island during the evening or night. These weather conditions may be accompanied by thunder and lightning.
Wind conditions are also expected to remain strong. Very strong winds of 50–60 kmph, with gusts up to 70 kmph, may occur at times over the Northern Province. Meanwhile, strong winds of 40–50 kmph are likely over the North-Western Province and in Matale, Trincomalee, and Nuwara-Eliya districts.
The general public is strongly advised to take necessary precautions to minimize damage caused by temporary strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning, especially in vulnerable and low-lying areas. Authorities urge residents to stay alert and follow further updates issued by the Department of Meteorology.
