The Department of Meteorology has forecast localized rainfall across several provinces and districts on August 24, accompanied by strong winds and rough seas in particular coastal areas.
Showers are expected to develop across parts of Sri Lanka today, with the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces as well as the Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle and Matara districts likely to experience rainfall at times. The North Western Province may see multiple spells of showers, while showers or thundershowers could occur in the Ampara, Monaragala and Batticaloa districts after 2.00 pm. According to the Department of Meteorology, most other areas of the island are expected to remain relatively dry.
Fairly strong winds between 30-40 kmph are anticipated across the Western slopes of the Central hills, the North-central and North-western provinces, and in the Mannar, Trincomalee, Hambantota and Matale districts. Southwesterly winds will persist across surrounding seas, with speeds potentially reaching 50-60 kmph in areas extending from Kankasanthurai to Chilaw via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil. In other sea areas around the island, winds may increase to 45-50 kmph at times.
Maritime conditions are expected to deteriorate in certain zones. The sea areas off the coasts stretching from Kankasanthurai to Chilaw via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be rough at times, while other surrounding sea areas may become fairly rough. Wave heights could increase to 2.0-2.5 meters in waters extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Matara. The Department of Meteorology has advised the public to exercise caution regarding temporary strong winds and lightning during thundershowers, while naval and fishing communities are urged to remain vigilant in affected sea areas.
