July 13, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Meteorological Department has issued a high-level weather warning, cautioning of turbulent sea conditions and powerful winds expected to impact southern and western maritime regions over the next 24 hours.
The advisory applies in particular to coastal stretches between Galle and Pottuvil, passing through Matara and Hambantota, where sea conditions are anticipated to become extremely rough, with gusts ranging between 55 to 65 kilometres per hour.
Winds are also expected to intensify along sea areas from Galle to Puttalam via Colombo, where waters will likely be fairly rough, accompanied by wind gusts peaking between 50 and 55 kilometres per hour. Mariners are being urged to exercise heightened caution, as the adverse conditions could pose significant dangers, especially for small and medium-scale fishing vessels.
Forecasters warn of the potential development of strong swell waves along affected coastal belts, particularly from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota. These swells may reach heights of 2.5 to 3 metres, bringing the risk of coastal surges and wave inundation in nearshore areas.
In light of the prevailing conditions, the Meteorological Department has strongly advised fishing and naval communities to suspend all activity in sea zones from Galle to Pottuvil, as the combination of gusty winds and large waves could threaten both vessels and crew.
Those operating in other parts of the island’s western and southern seas, particularly between Galle and Puttalam, have been urged to remain alert and monitor further weather updates.
