Public advised to take precautions amidst potential weather hazards

The Department of Meteorology, on Friday (13) forecasted afternoon or nighttime showers, including thundershowers, across most parts of the island for Saturday. The Department said it anticipates fairly heavy showers, exceeding 75 mm, in certain locations in the Uva, Central, and Eastern provinces. Coastal areas in the western and southern provinces may experience a few morning showers.

Misty conditions are likely in certain areas of the Central, Sabaragamuwa, and Uva provinces during the morning. The public is advised to take precautions against potential damage from temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

In sea areas, expect showers or thundershowers from Colombo to Batticaloa via Galle and Hambantota. Other sea areas around the island may also experience showers or thundershowers, particularly in the afternoon or night. Southerly to south-westerly winds at speeds of 20-30 kmph are forecasted, with occasional increases up to 40 kmph in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankesanturai via Mannar.

Moderate conditions are expected in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankesanturai via Mannar, while temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas are anticipated during thundershowers.