# SRI LANKA MORNING WEATHER FORECAST FOR SEA AREAS ON 03 JANUARY 2026

- Link: https://www.weather.lk/sri-lanka-morning-weather-forecast-for-sea-areas-on-03-january-2026/
- Published: 2026-01-03T11:01:45+05:30
- Author: Weather LK

## **North-Easterly Winds to Strengthen as Rough Seas Persist**

The Department of Meteorology has issued a fresh marine weather bulletin today, 
January 3, 2026, of intensifying wind speeds and increasingly turbulent conditions
across the sea areas surrounding Sri Lanka. As a low-level atmospheric disturbance
remains active to the east of the island, naval and fishing communities are urged
to exercise high caution over the next 24 hours.

A significant shift in wind intensity is expected today. While winds will remain
predominantly north-easterly with average speeds of **30–40 kmph**, they are forecast
to surge significantly in specific sectors. Wind speeds could reach **50–55 kmph**
at times in the vast sea area extending from **Galle to Hambantota**, covering the
western, northern, and eastern coasts via **Colombo, Puttalam, Kankesanthurai, Trincomalee,
and Batticaloa**.

Due to the localized surge in wind velocity, the sea areas mentioned above—stretching
from Galle to Hambantota—will be **rough at times**. In a notable update from previous
forecasts, the Department has also warned that other sea areas around the island,
which were previously moderate, may now become **fairly rough**.

The maritime regions continue to face widespread showery conditions. Showers or 
thundershowers are expected at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending
from **Puttalam to Trincomalee** (via Colombo, Galle, Hambantota, and Batticaloa).
Other sea areas around the island may also experience isolated showers.

Authorities have reiterated a critical safety warning: during thundershowers, sea
conditions can deteriorate rapidly, leading to **temporarily strong gusty winds 
and very rough seas**.

Small craft and fishing vessels are advised to remain vigilant, particularly when
navigating the rough waters of the western, northern, and eastern belts. Those venturing
out should stay tuned to further updates from the Department of Meteorology as the
atmospheric disturbance continues to influence the region.

![](https://www.weather.lk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Wave-Height-Wind_Surface_MFWAM-
Global_20260103T1130000530-1-1024x538.jpg)