Southwest Monsoon Strengthens Across Sri Lanka; Heavy Rains and Strong Winds Expected

The Department of Meteorology says the Southwest monsoon is gradually becoming established across Sri Lanka, bringing continued rainy conditions to several parts of the island over the coming hours.

Showers or thundershowers are expected at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces, as well as in the districts of Galle, Matara, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.

According to the department, very heavy rainfall of more than 200 mm is likely in some areas of the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces.

Heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm is also expected in parts of the Galle, Matara, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya districts.

Meanwhile, several spells of showers are forecast for the Northern Province and the Anuradhapura District.

Showers or thundershowers may also occur at a few locations in the Uva Province and in the Ampara and Batticaloa districts after 2:00 p.m.

Fairly strong winds of 35–45 km/h are expected at times over the western slopes of the central hills and in the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, and Southern provinces, as well as in the Trincomalee District.

The public has been advised to take necessary precautions to reduce the risk of damage caused by localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.