Rough Seas Expected in Several Coastal Areas Over Next 24 Hours
Issued at 2.00 p.m. on 22 December 2025
The Department of Meteorology has issued a marine weather advisory for sea areas around Sri Lanka, highlighting rough sea conditions and strong winds in several coastal regions during the next 24 hours.
Light showers are expected in the sea areas off the coast extending from Trincomalee to Pottuvil via Batticaloa, which may cause temporary reductions in visibility.
Winds over the surrounding sea areas will be north-easterly to northerly, with average wind speeds of 30–40 kmph. However, wind speeds may increase up to 50 kmph at times, particularly in the sea areas from Balapitiya to Mannar via Colombo and Puttalam, and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
Due to the strong winds, the sea areas off the coast extending from Balapitiya to Mannar via Colombo and Puttalam, as well as from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota, are expected to be rough at times. Other sea areas around the island will experience moderate sea conditions.
Fishermen and maritime operators are advised to exercise caution when operating in affected sea areas and to remain alert to future weather updates.
