The Department of Meteorology has announced that a low-pressure area has formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal. This weather system is expected to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal by November 25.
According to the department, the system may strengthen further and approach Sri Lanka’s northern coastline. A ‘Red’ weather warning has been issued for both land and sea areas surrounding the island in anticipation of severe conditions.
The department forecasts extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 150 mm in certain locations within the Eastern and Uva provinces due to the system’s influence.
Sea conditions are expected to be extremely hazardous, with deep and shallow waters off the coastlines from Mannar to Hambantota—via Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Pottuvil—turning very rough to high. Wind speeds in these areas may reach 60-70 km/h, accompanied by intense showers and thunderstorms.
The Meteorology Department has advised naval and fishing communities to refrain from venturing into these sea areas starting November 24 until further notice.
The public has been urged to remain vigilant for extreme weather conditions predicted from November 24 to November 26. People are also encouraged to stay updated with future advisories from the Meteorology Department and to contact local disaster management authorities for assistance during emergencies.
