Low-pressure area near Sri Lanka expected to bring rainfall exceeding 100 mm

The Department of Meteorology has warned that a low-pressure area near Sri Lanka is expected to bring heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm to several parts of the island over the next two days.

Director of Forecasting at the Department of Meteorology, Merrill Mendis, made the announcement at a special media briefing on October 22 at the Department of Government Information.

Mr. Mendis said an atmospheric disturbance had persisted near the island for several days before developing into a low-pressure area yesterday. Initially positioned towards the northwest, the system is now moving westward.

He said 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.

Considerable rainfall is expected during the next two days in the Western, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Northern and Southern provinces, as well as the Galle and Matara districts.

Mr. Mendis 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.

Another low-pressure area is expected to develop over the Andaman Islands from 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 been advised to exercise extreme caution, while the public has been urged to take necessary precautions against lightning strikes during thunderstorms.