Rough Seas and Strong Winds Forecast for Sri Lanka’s Coastal Belt
The Department of Meteorology has issued a comprehensive marine weather advisory at today, January 2, 2026, warning of turbulent sea conditions and increased wind speeds affecting the majority of the island’s coastal waters over the next 24 hours.
Widespread showers or thundershowers are expected in the sea areas stretching from Puttalam to Trincomalee, covering the southern and eastern arcs via Colombo, Galle, Hambantota, and Batticaloa. Other sea areas around the island may also experience scattered showers.
The Department warns that during thundershowers, sea conditions can deteriorate rapidly, leading to temporarily very rough seas and intense, gusty winds.
The prevailing wind flow is expected to be Northerly to North-easterly, with standard speeds ranging between 30-40 kmph. However, a significant increase in wind speed is anticipated for almost all coastal stretches.
Wind speeds may surge up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Hambantota,Colombo and Puttalam, Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa
Due to the heightened wind speeds, the sea areas surrounding most of the island—specifically from Galle to Hambantota via the Western and Northern coasts to Batticaloa—will remain fairly rough at times. The remaining sea areas are expected to maintain a moderate state.
Warning to Naval and Fishing Communities
Small vessel operators and the fishing community are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution. The combination of an atmospheric disturbance and localized thundershowers poses a risk of sudden, strong gusty winds.
Crew members are encouraged to monitor official channels for further updates before venturing into deep-sea areas, particularly along the Eastern and Southern coasts.
