Sri Lanka warns fishermen and sailors to avoid rough seas

Sri Lanka’s Department of Meteorology has warned fishermen and sailors to avoid several sea areas around the island until further notice because of strong winds and very rough conditions.

The department said winds over the surrounding seas would blow from the southwest at speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour during the next 24 hours.

Wind speeds could increase to between 60 and 70 kilometres per hour in sea areas extending from Kankesanthurai to Pottuvil via Mannar, Colombo, Galle and Hambantota.

The sea areas from Trincomalee to Kankesanthurai via Mullaitivu could experience wind speeds of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour.

The department said seas from Kankesanthurai to Pottuvil via Mannar, Colombo, Galle and Hambantota could become very rough at times. It advised fishing and naval communities to avoid operating in those areas until further notice.

Sea areas from Trincomalee to Kankesanthurai via Mullaitivu could also become rough, and those engaged in fishing and maritime activities were urged to remain vigilant.

The department said wave heights from Mannar to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota could rise to between 2.5 and 3 metres.

Showers may occur at times in sea areas off the coast from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle.