Cyclonic Storm Arnab Intensifies: Heavy Rain, Strong Winds and Rough Seas Expected

Sri Lanka is expected to experience increased rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions on 27 October 2026 as Cyclonic Storm Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal. The cyclone is expected to influence weather conditions across the island, particularly the southwestern parts, during the next few days.

Although Cyclonic Storm Arnab is not expected to directly impact Sri Lanka, its associated wind flow is likely to increase rainfall and create unsettled weather conditions across several provinces. The public, naval personnel and fishing communities are advised to remain alert and follow official weather updates.

Cyclonic Storm Arnab Intensifies Over the Bay of Bengal

The deep depression over the east-central and adjoining southeastern Bay of Bengal intensified into Cyclonic Storm Arnab. At 8.30 a.m. on 26 October, the system was located near latitude 15.4°N and longitude 88.5°E, approximately 1,100 kilometres northeast of Kankasanthurai.

The storm is expected to move west-northwestwards and intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal. According to the forecast, it is expected to strengthen into a very severe cyclonic storm on 27 October before making landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast of India at around 11.30 a.m. on 28 October.

Despite the expected landfall in India, the circulation associated with the cyclone could influence Sri Lanka’s weather, resulting in increased rainfall, strong winds and rough seas.

Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Several Provinces

Showers or thundershowers are expected at times in the Northern, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, North-Western, Central and North-Central provinces, as well as in the Trincomalee district on 27 October.

Fairly heavy rainfall exceeding 75 millimetres is likely at some locations in these areas. Other parts of the island may also experience showers or thundershowers after 1.00 p.m.

The southwestern parts of Sri Lanka are expected to experience increased rainfall during the next few days as wind patterns associated with Cyclonic Storm Arnab extend across the island. Residents should remain cautious during periods of heavy rain, particularly in areas that may be affected by localised flooding or other adverse weather conditions.

The public is advised to monitor official forecasts and take appropriate precautions during thunderstorms.

Strong Winds Expected in Several Areas

Strong winds are also expected in several parts of the country. Wind speeds of around 40–50 kilometres per hour may occur at times over the western slopes of the Central Hills, the Northern, North-Central and North-Western provinces, and the Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.

Temporary localised strong winds may occur during thundershowers, increasing the risk of damage from falling branches and unsecured outdoor objects. Residents are advised to take precautions and remain alert to changing weather conditions.

The Department of Meteorology has requested the public to take adequate precautions to minimise damage caused by strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Very Rough Seas and Dangerous Marine Conditions

Cyclonic Storm Arnab is expected to create dangerous sea conditions over parts of the Bay of Bengal. Wind speeds in the sea area bounded by 10°N to 20°N latitude and 80°E to 95°E longitude may increase to 80–100 kilometres per hour at times. Heavy thundershowers are also possible, while wave heights may reach approximately 3–4 metres.

The Department of Meteorology has warned naval and fishing communities not to venture into these affected sea areas until further notice. Those already operating in the specified areas are advised to move away from the affected waters and closely monitor official weather bulletins.

Around Sri Lanka, showers or thundershowers are expected at several places in the surrounding sea areas during the next 24 hours. Southwesterly winds are forecast at 30–40 kilometres per hour, with speeds increasing to 60–65 kilometres per hour at times in the deep and shallow sea areas extending from Colombo to Mullaitivu via Galle, Matara, Hambantota, Pottuvil and Batticaloa. Winds in other surrounding sea areas may reach 50 kilometres per hour at times.

The sea areas along the same coastal stretch may become very rough, while other sea areas around the island may be rough at times. Wave heights may increase to approximately 2–2.5 metres in sea areas extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Matara. During thundershowers, temporarily strong gusty winds of 60–70 kilometres per hour and very rough seas can be expected.

Public Advised to Follow Weather Updates

As Cyclonic Storm Arnab continues to intensify, the public is advised to remain vigilant and follow updates issued by the Department of Meteorology. Fishermen and naval communities should strictly follow marine advisories and avoid entering dangerous sea areas.

Residents across Sri Lanka should take precautions against heavy rainfall, lightning and temporary strong winds, particularly during afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Although the cyclone is not expected to make direct landfall in Sri Lanka, its associated weather patterns could still produce hazardous conditions across the island and surrounding seas.