November 08, Colombo (LNW): A developing weather system over the southeastern Bay of Bengal and neighbouring Andaman Sea is expected to bring potentially unsettled conditions to the region in the coming days, according to Sri Lanka’s Department of Meteorology.
Meteorological observations indicate that an atmospheric disturbance could emerge around 11 November, gradually developing into a low-pressure system by 13 November. The system may strengthen further and reach depression status by 15 November, Duty Meteorologist Udeni Weerasinghe has indicated.
Fishing communities and naval personnel operating in the affected waters have been advised to exercise heightened caution, closely monitor official weather bulletins and remain prepared for possible changes in sea conditions.
Meanwhile, unsettled weather is forecast across much of Sri Lanka today (8 November), with showers and thunderstorms likely to develop in several areas, particularly during the afternoon and evening. Some locations could also experience rain during the morning.
Rainfall totals may exceed 100mm in isolated areas of the Western, Sabaragamuwa and Central Provinces, along with parts of the Galle, Matara and Kurunegala districts.
The public has been urged to take appropriate precautions during thunderstorms, particularly in view of the risk of lightning strikes. Sudden gusty winds may also accompany periods of heavy rain.
Similar conditions are expected over the surrounding sea areas, where showers and thunderstorms could develop at several locations. Winds are forecast to remain generally between 20 and 30 kilometres per hour, although considerably stronger gusts of between 60 and 70 kilometres per hour may occur temporarily during thunderstorms.
Authorities have reiterated the need for fishing operators and naval communities to remain attentive to official weather warnings, particularly as the developing system over the Bay of Bengal could influence regional weather patterns in the days ahead.