Maritime Weather Outlook: Strong Winds and Rough Seas Expected Over Next 24 Hours
The Department of Meteorology has released its latest maritime bulletin, issued at 2:00 p.m. today, January 3, 2026, detailing the expected sea conditions around the island for the upcoming 24-hour period.
According to the report, showery conditions are expected to persist in several key maritime sectors. Showers are forecast to occur at various locations in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankesanthurai to Pottuvil, traveling via Trincomalee and Batticaloa.
The prevailing wind flow across the island’s waters will remain north-easterly. While standard speeds are expected to range between 30 and 40 kmph, a significant increase in velocity is anticipated in specific zones.
Wind speeds are likely to surge up to 50–55 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Hambantota, encompassing the waters off Colombo, Puttalam, Kankesanthurai, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa.
The increase in wind activity will directly influence the sea state. The coastal waters stretching from Galle to Hambantota (via Colombo, Puttalam, Kankesanthurai, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa) are expected to be rough at times.
Meanwhile, the remaining sea areas around the island are also predicted to experience slightly elevated turbulence, with conditions described as fairly rough.
Naval and fishing communities operating in these regions are advised to monitor weather updates closely and exercise caution due to the expected rough conditions and high wind speeds.
