Rough sea conditions expected over next 24 hours

Colombo, June 18 (Daily Mirror) - The Meteorology Department has warned of strong winds and rough sea conditions in several sea areas around Sri Lanka over the next 24 hours, while showers and thundershowers are also expected in parts of the western and southern coastal waters.

According to the sea area forecast issued at 5.30 a.m. today (18), showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle.

South-westerly winds are expected to prevail at speeds of 30 to 40 kmph across the surrounding sea areas.

However, wind speeds could increase to 50-60 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota.

Meanwhile, winds may strengthen up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Trincomalee to Kankasanthurai via Mullaitivu and from Kalpitiya to Galle via Colombo.

The department further said the sea areas off the coasts extending from Kankasanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be rough at times.

Sea areas off the coasts extending from Trincomalee to Kankasanthurai via Mullaitivu and from Kalpitiya to Galle via Colombo are expected to be fairly rough at times.

The Department advised the fishing and maritime communities to remain vigilant and exercise caution while venturing into the affected sea areas.