South-West monsoon gradually establishing itself over Sri Lanka

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama

The Meteorology Department says the South-West monsoon is gradually establishing itself over the island, bringing increased rainfall and strong winds to several parts of the island.  

According to the latest weather forecast, showers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-Western provinces and in the districts of Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.  

Fairly heavy rainfall of around 75 mm is expected at some locations 

in these areas.  

A few showers are also likely in the Northern Province and the 

Anuradhapura District.  

Meanwhile, showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in the Uva Province and in the Ampara and Batticaloa districts after 2.00 p.m.  The Department further said that fairly strong winds of 35 to 45 kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the central hills, as well as in the Northern, North-Central, North-Western and Southern provinces and the Trincomalee District.  

The public has been advised to take necessary precautions to minimize damage caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.