A low-pressure area that has developed near Sri Lanka is expected to bring heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm to several parts of the island over the next two days, the Department of Meteorology has warned.
Director of Forecasting at the Department of Meteorology, Merrill Mendis, made this announcement at a special media briefing held today (October 22) at the Department of Government Information.
He said an atmospheric disturbance had persisted near the island for several days before developing into a low-pressure area yesterday. The system, which had initially been positioned towards the northwest, is now moving westward.
He further explained that wind flows are converging towards the low-pressure area, increasing the likelihood of significant rainfall. Intermittent rainfall exceeding 100 mm could occur throughout the day in some areas.
The Western, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Northern and Southern provinces, as well as the Galle and Matara districts, are expected to experience considerable rainfall during the next two days.
Mr. Mendis also noted that the atmospheric disturbance over the Bay of Bengal has contributed to the formation of the Intertropical Convergence Zone, with a further increase in rainfall expected.
In addition, another low-pressure area is expected to develop over the Andaman Islands from tomorrow (October 23). Consequently, showers are forecast in the southwestern parts of Sri Lanka until October 27.
The Department of Meteorology has urged the public to remain vigilant regarding the prevailing weather conditions. Fishermen engaging in activities in the deep-sea areas of the Bay of Bengal have also been advised to exercise extreme caution, while the public has been urged to take necessary precautions against lightning strikes during thunderstorms.
