Showery conditions will continue to influence weather across much of Sri Lanka on 20 February 2026. Showers are expected at times in the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva and Central provinces, bringing persistent rainfall to these regions throughout the day.
Fairly heavy rainfall of about 75 mm is likely at some locations in the Eastern Province and in the districts of Matale, Badulla, Mullaittivu and Polonnaruwa. Residents in these areas should remain alert, particularly those living in low-lying or flood-prone locations. Several spells of showers may also occur in the Hambantota District, contributing to wet conditions in the southern part of the island.
In other areas of the country, showers or thundershowers may develop at several places after 1.00 p.m. Additionally, fairly heavy rainfall of about 50 mm is likely at some places in the Rathnapura and Nuwara-Eliya districts. These afternoon thundershowers may be accompanied by temporary localized strong winds and lightning. The general public is kindly advised to take necessary precautions to minimize potential damage caused by strong winds and lightning during these weather events.
Misty conditions can be expected during the early morning hours in parts of the Central and Sabaragamuwa provinces, as well as in the Galle and Matara districts. Motorists, especially in hilly and inland areas, are urged to drive carefully due to possible reduced visibility.
Regarding sea areas around the island during the next 24 hours, a low-pressure area continues to persist over the southwest Bay of Bengal, southeast of Sri Lanka. Naval and fishing communities are requested to remain attentive to future forecasts and bulletins issued by the Department of Meteorology.
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the sea areas extending from Galle to Trincomalee via Hambantota and Batticaloa. Winds will be north-easterly at 30–40 kmph, increasing up to 50 kmph at times in sea areas from Colombo to Kankasanthurai via Puttalam and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota. These sea areas may be fairly rough at times, while other sea areas around the island will remain moderate. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.