The Meteorological Department has warned of rough sea conditions across multiple coastal areas of Sri Lanka over the next 24 hours, advising fishermen and naval communities to avoid affected regions.
The Meteorological Department released a marine weather forecast on January 1st warning of hazardous sea conditions expected to persist for the next 24 hours across several coastal zones. The advisory urges fishing and naval communities to exercise heightened caution and refrain from entering designated high-risk areas until conditions improve.
According to the department's forecast, the most severe conditions are anticipated in sea areas stretching from Kankesanthurai to Pottuvil via Mannar, Colombo, Galle, and Hambantota, where conditions are expected to become very rough at times. Wind speeds in these zones may reach 60–70 kmph, occasionally exceeding normal operational thresholds. Wave heights in this region are projected to climb to approximately 2.5–3.0 metres.
Moderate to rough conditions are also forecast for areas extending from Trincomalee to Kankesanthurai via Mullaittivu, with wind speeds potentially reaching 50–60 kmph. Across the broader coastal region from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle, showers are expected alongside south-westerly winds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph. The department has instructed those in moderately affected areas to remain alert and implement appropriate safety protocols while at sea.
