Atmospheric conditions across Sri Lanka are favorable for widespread thundershowers today (21 February 2026), with showery conditions expected to intensify over most parts of the island. Residents in several provinces should prepare for periods of heavy rainfall and possible strong winds.
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva and Central provinces, as well as in the Hambantota District. In other areas of the country, showers or thundershowers may develop at several places after 1.00 p.m., mainly during the afternoon and evening hours.
Heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm is likely at some locations in the Central, Uva and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in the Batticaloa, Ampara and Polonnaruwa districts. In addition, fairly heavy rainfall above 75 mm is expected at some places elsewhere. Such intense rainfall may lead to localized flooding, waterlogging and disruptions to transport in vulnerable areas.
Misty conditions can be expected during the early morning hours in parts of the Central and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in the Galle, Matara and Kalutara districts, reducing visibility for motorists.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
In the sea areas around the island during the next 24 hours, showers or thundershowers will occur at times from Galle to Trincomalee via Hambantota and Batticaloa. Winds will be north-easterly to northerly from Mullaittivu to Colombo, and south-westerly or variable elsewhere, with speeds of 30–40 kmph. The seas will be moderate, though temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.