Cyclone Arnab Heavy Rain, Strong Winds and Rough Seas Expected

Sri Lanka is expected to experience unsettled weather conditions on 26 October 2026, with heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough seas as a depression over the Bay of Bengal is forecast to intensify into a cyclonic storm. Although the developing system is not expected to directly impact Sri Lanka, its associated wind flow could increase rainfall across the island, particularly in southwestern areas, over the next few days.

Bay of Bengal Depression Expected to Intensify

The depression over the Bay of Bengal was centred near latitude 15.3°N and longitude 91.2°E at 8.30 a.m. on 25 October 2026. The system is expected to strengthen into a deep depression while moving over the east-central and adjoining southeastern Bay of Bengal.

According to the forecast issued at 2.00 p.m. on 25 October, the system is expected to move southwards before gradually recurving towards the west-northwest. It is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm by the morning of 26 October and a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of 27 October.

Although a direct impact on Sri Lanka is not anticipated, the circulation associated with the system is expected to influence local weather patterns, increasing rainfall and wind speeds in several regions.

Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Several Provinces

Showers or thundershowers are expected at times in the Northern, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, North-Western and Central provinces, as well as in the Anuradhapura district. Heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm is likely at some locations in these areas.

Meanwhile, showers or thundershowers are expected at several places in the Uva Province and in the Ampara and Batticaloa districts after 1.00 p.m.

The public should remain alert to changing weather conditions, especially in areas forecast to receive heavy rainfall. Temporary localized strong winds and lightning may accompany thundershowers, creating potentially hazardous conditions.

People are advised to take adequate precautions to minimize damage caused by lightning and sudden wind gusts. Those travelling during periods of heavy rain should remain cautious, particularly where visibility may be reduced.

Strong Winds Expected in Several Areas

Strong winds reaching approximately 40–50 kmph are expected at times over the western slopes of the Central Hills, the Northern, North-Central and North-Western provinces, and the Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.

These conditions could affect outdoor activities and travel, particularly in exposed locations. Residents should secure loose outdoor objects and remain cautious during thunderstorms.

Rough Seas and Marine Safety Advisory

The Department of Meteorology has also warned of hazardous marine conditions associated with the developing Bay of Bengal system. Showers or thundershowers are expected at several places in the sea areas surrounding Sri Lanka.

Southwesterly winds are forecast at speeds of 30–40 kmph. However, wind speeds could increase to 50–60 kmph at times in sea areas extending from Trincomalee to Pottuvil via Kankasanthurai, Puttalam, Colombo, Galle and Hambantota.

These coastal sea areas are expected to be rough at times, while other sea areas around the island may become fairly rough. Wave heights could increase to approximately 2.0–2.5 metres in the sea areas extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Matara. During thundershowers, temporarily strong gusty winds of 60–70 kmph and very rough seas are possible.

Naval and fishing communities are warned not to venture into deep-sea areas bounded by 10°N–20°N and 80°E–95°E until further notice. Those already operating in these waters are advised to move to safe areas and closely monitor future forecasts and bulletins issued by the Department of Meteorology.

Public Advised to Remain Alert

Although the developing cyclone is not expected to make a direct impact on Sri Lanka, its influence could bring significant rainfall and hazardous marine conditions over the coming days. The public, particularly residents in areas forecast to receive heavy rain and fishing communities, should follow official weather updates and take appropriate safety precautions.

The forecast was issued by the Department of Meteorology at 2.00 p.m. on 25 October 2026 for the following day, 26 October 2026.