‘Red’ Alert Issued as Deep Depression Intensifies Near Sri Lanka

‘Red’ Alert Issued as Deep Depression Intensifies Near Sri Lanka

Colombo: The Department of Meteorology has issued a ‘Red’ alert for both land areas and the deep and shallow sea zones surrounding Sri Lanka as a deep depression in the Southwest Bay of Bengal intensifies.

According to the advisory, the depression has strengthened into a deep depression and, as of 11:00 a.m. on November 26, 2024, was located approximately 170 km southeast of Batticaloa and 240 km southeast of Trincomalee. It is forecasted to move closer to Sri Lanka’s east coast and intensify into a cyclonic storm by November 27.

Weather Impact

Under the influence of this system, widespread cloudy skies are expected across the country. Heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds are predicted in the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva, Northwestern, and Central provinces.

Additionally, showers or thundershowers are anticipated in most parts of the island, with some areas in the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Central, Uva, and Southern provinces, as well as the Puttalam district, likely to receive very heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm. Other parts of the island may experience rainfall above 100 mm.

Marine Conditions

The deep and shallow sea areas around Sri Lanka are forecasted to become rough to very rough, with wind speeds potentially increasing to 60-70 kmph. Heavy showers or thundershowers are also expected over sea areas.

Swell waves ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 meters in height are likely in the sea areas off the coast from Batticaloa to Kankasanthurai via Trincomalee. These swell waves may cause surges in nearshore areas along this stretch.

Safety Advisory

The Meteorology Department has urged naval and fishing communities to avoid venturing into deep and shallow sea areas until further notice. The general public is also advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions against potential extreme weather conditions on November 26 and 27.

For emergencies, the public is encouraged to contact local disaster management authorities and stay updated on future advisories issued by the Department of Meteorology.

Stay tuned to Lanka Citizen News for the latest updates on this developing situation.