– The Meteorology Department has warned that rough sea conditions and strong winds are expected in several sea areas around the island during the next 24 hours.According to the weather forecast issued at 5.30 a.m. today (14), showers or thundershowers are likely at several places in the sea areas off the coast stretching from Colombo to Hambantota via Galle.Winds are expected to blow from the south-west at speeds of 30 to 40 kmph. However, wind speeds may increase up to 50 to 60 kmph at times in sea areas extending from Trincomalee to Pottuvil via Kankasanthurai, Mannar, Colombo, Galle and Hambantota.

The Meteorology Department stated that sea areas off the coasts from Trincomalee to Pottuvil via Kankasanthurai, Mannar, Colombo, Galle and Hambantota will be rough at times. Fishing and naval communities operating in these areas have been advised to remain vigilant.Other sea areas around the island are expected to be fairly rough at times.Wave heights of about 2.0 to 2.5 metres may occur in the sea areas from Mannar to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota.

The department further warned that temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.