Sri Lanka is expected to experience an increase in rainfall today, 22 October 2026, as a low-pressure area develops from a low-level atmospheric disturbance near the island. The system is expected to influence weather conditions across the country and surrounding deep and shallow sea areas, bringing widespread showers, thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to several regions.
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Northern, North-Western and Southern provinces, as well as in the Anuradhapura district. Cloudy skies are also expected over these areas throughout the day. Meanwhile, showers or thundershowers are likely in other parts of the island after 1.00 p.m.
Heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm is possible at some locations in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and North-Western provinces. These areas should remain alert to changing weather conditions, particularly during periods of intense rainfall. Residents are advised to take adequate precautions against possible damage caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Misty conditions may develop in some areas of the Central and Uva provinces during the early morning hours. Motorists travelling through these regions should exercise caution due to potentially reduced visibility.
The Department of Meteorology has also advised the general public to remain attentive to future weather forecasts and official bulletins as the low-pressure system continues to influence the island.
Sea Weather Forecast for Sri Lanka
Unsettled weather is also expected across the sea areas surrounding Sri Lanka during the next 24 hours. Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in sea areas around the island, affecting fishing and naval activities.
Winds will be westerly to south-westerly, with speeds ranging from 25 to 35 kmph. Wind speeds may temporarily increase to between 40 and 50 kmph in sea areas extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle, Matara and Hambantota.
These coastal sea areas may become fairly rough at times, while other sea areas around the island are expected to remain slight under normal conditions. However, temporarily strong gusty winds reaching 60–70 kmph and very rough seas may occur during thundershowers.
Naval personnel and fishing communities are urged to closely monitor official weather updates before engaging in marine activities. The public should follow advisories issued by the Department of Meteorology and take necessary precautions as rainfall intensifies across the island.
