Sri Lanka Weather Forecast for 16 May 2026: Heavy Showers and Rough Seas Expected
The Department of Meteorology has announced that the low-pressure area located northeast of Sri Lanka continues to persist, influencing weather conditions across the island and surrounding sea areas. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the behavior, development and movement of the system as unsettled weather conditions continue in several regions.
According to the latest forecast issued at 5.30 a.m. on 16 May 2026, showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-Western and Northern provinces, as well as in the Galle and Matara districts. Cloudy skies are also expected in these areas throughout the day. Fairly heavy rainfall of around 75 mm is likely at some places, raising the possibility of localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Several spells of showers are also expected in the Anuradhapura district, while a few evening showers or thundershowers may develop in the Uva and Eastern provinces after 1.00 p.m. Residents are advised to remain alert for lightning and temporary strong winds during thundershower activity.
Meanwhile, sea conditions around the island are expected to remain unsettled over the next 24 hours. Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in sea areas extending from Mullaitivu to Galle via Kankasanthurai, Puttalam and Colombo. Winds will be south-westerly with speeds of 25–35 kmph, increasing up to 50–60 kmph at times in coastal sea areas from Kankasanthurai to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota.
The Department of Meteorology warned that sea areas in these regions may become rough at times, while swell waves of about 2.0 to 2.5 meters could develop from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota. Naval and fishing communities are strongly advised to pay close attention to future weather bulletins and exercise caution during fishing and navigation activities.
