Sea Weather Forecast Rough Seas and Strong Winds Expected Around Sri Lanka Over Next 24 Hours
Issued at 05.30 a.m. on 19 December 2025
The Department of Meteorology has issued a sea weather advisory for the next 24 hours, warning of rough sea conditions, strong winds, and thundershowers in several maritime zones around Sri Lanka.
According to the forecast, showers are expected at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Trincomalee to Hambantota via Pottuvil. In addition, showers or thundershowers may occur during the evening or night in sea areas off the coast from Chilaw to Pottuvil via Colombo and Galle.
North-easterly winds will prevail over the surrounding sea areas, with wind speeds generally ranging between 30 and 40 kmph. However, wind speeds may increase up to 50 kmph at times in sea areas off the coast extending from Colombo to Batticaloa via Puttalam, Kankasanthurai, and Trincomalee.
Due to the strengthening winds, the sea will be rough at times in the maritime zones from Colombo to Batticaloa, passing Puttalam, Kankasanthurai, and Trincomalee. Sea conditions in other areas around the island are expected to remain moderate.
The Meteorology Department further warns that temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can occur during thundershowers. Fishermen and naval communities are strongly advised to be vigilant and take necessary safety precautions before venturing into the sea.
