South-West Monsoon Continues to Bring Rain and Strong Winds on 24 May 2026
The South-West monsoon is gradually becoming active across Sri Lanka, bringing rainy and windy conditions to several parts of the country, according to the latest weather forecast issued at 5.30 a.m. on 24 May 2026 by the Department of Meteorology.
Showers or thundershowers are expected at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-Western provinces as well as in the districts of Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya. Fairly heavy rainfall above 50 mm is likely at some locations, particularly in the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in the Galle and Matara districts.
Meanwhile, mainly fair weather is expected to prevail across the remaining parts of the island. However, strong south-westerly winds associated with the developing monsoon system are expected to affect several regions. Fairly strong winds of around 30-40 kmph may occur at times over the western slopes of the central hills and in the Northern, North-central, North-western and Southern provinces, including the Trincomalee district.
Authorities have advised the public to remain cautious due to the possibility of temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers. Residents in vulnerable areas are encouraged to stay alert for sudden weather changes and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during thunderstorms.
Sea conditions around the island are also expected to remain unsettled during the next 24 hours. Showers or thundershowers are forecast in the sea areas extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle, while isolated showers may develop in other surrounding sea areas during the evening or night.
Winds over the sea will be south-westerly with speeds of 30-40 kmph, increasing up to 50-60 kmph at times in the sea areas stretching from Kankasanthurai to Pottuvil via Puttalam, Colombo, Galle and Hambantota. As a result, these sea areas are expected to become rough at times, while other sea areas will remain fairly rough.
Wave heights may also increase between 2.0 and 2.5 meters in the coastal waters from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota. Fishermen and naval communities are advised to exercise extreme caution due to strong gusty winds and rough seas during thundershowers.