The Department of Meteorology has issued a high-level red advisory for strong winds and rough seas affecting multiple coastal regions, warning of wind speeds up to 70 kmph and wave heights reaching 2.5 meters.
Sri Lanka's Department of Meteorology has declared a red-level weather advisory for sea areas surrounding much of the island, citing hazardous conditions expected to persist until 9:00 a.m. on December 31st. The alert covers two main coastal zones: the western and northern seas from Kankesanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar, and the southern and eastern waters from Hambantota to Pottuvil.
Wind conditions will vary across affected regions. In sea areas extending from Trincomalee to Kankesanthurai via Mullaitivu and from Kalpitiya to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle, strong gusts of 50-60 kilometers per hour are anticipated. However, the most severe conditions are expected off the coasts from Kankesanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil, where winds may reach 60-70 kmph at times.
Wave heights pose an additional concern in certain areas. The Department of Meteorology projects that seas off the coast from Mannar to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle, and Hambantota may experience waves reaching 2.0 to 2.5 meters. In response to these dangerous conditions, the meteorological authorities have urged fishing communities and naval personnel to exercise heightened caution while conducting operations in the affected sea areas.
