Public urged to take action as cyclonic conditions build near Eastern coast
Authorities have urged the public to take action as a developing weather system in the Bay of Bengal is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to several parts of the country.
The deep depression, located about 200 kilometres southeast of Batticaloa as at 4.00 a.m. on January 9, is forecast to intensify further and move northwestwards towards the Sri Lankan coast between Pottuvil and Trincomalee by this evening. Meteorological forecasts indicate that the system is likely to strengthen into a cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours.
As the system approaches, showery and windy conditions across the island are expected to intensify, with the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva and Central provinces most at risk.
Officials have warned of rough seas and hazardous conditions in surrounding sea areas and have called on fishing communities and coastal residents to take immediate precautionary measures. The public has been advised to remain alert, limit unnecessary travel, and follow instructions issued by relevant authorities as the weather situation continues to evolve.
