Sri Lanka is bracing for adverse weather as a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal, currently located about 700 kilometers southeast of Batticaloa, is expected to approach the country’s eastern coast by tomorrow, the Department of Meteorology has warned. Officials caution that the system may intensify into a depression in the coming hours, potentially bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds across multiple regions.
Merril Mendis, Director of the Weather Forecasting Division, noted that the system could cause widespread showers, particularly affecting the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva, and Central provinces. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and closely monitor updates from the Department of Meteorology as conditions may change rapidly over the next few days.
In response to the impending weather, authorities have imposed restrictions on maritime activities. Fishing and naval operations have been suspended in the sea areas stretching from Kankesanthurai to Trincomalee and from Batticaloa to Hambantota until further notice. Officials emphasized that the precautionary measures are intended to ensure the safety of coastal communities and prevent accidents at sea during the period of expected rough weather.
The Department of Meteorology continues to monitor the low-pressure system closely and has advised the public to follow official advisories, secure property where necessary, and avoid unnecessary travel in areas likely to be affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds. The coming 24 to 48 hours are expected to be critical in determining the system’s path and intensity, with authorities ready to respond to emergencies if the situation escalates.
