Colombo: The low-pressure area currently situated in the Bay of Bengal, southeast of Sri Lanka, is anticipated to intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours. This meteorological system is projected to move west-northwestwards, targeting the east coast of the island.

According to News.LK, the showery conditions over Sri Lanka are expected to increase from January 8th, particularly affecting the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva, and Central provinces. The Uva province along with Batticaloa, Ampara, Polonnaruwa, and Matale districts are likely to experience frequent showers. Some areas within these regions may witness fairly heavy rainfall exceeding 50 mm.

The Northern province, as well as Anuradhapura and Trincomalee districts, will experience several spells of showers. Additionally, elsewhere on the island, showers or thundershowers are anticipated at multiple locations post 1:00 p.m.

Strong winds, reaching speeds of about 50 kmph, are expected intermittently over the eastern slopes of the central hills, as well as in the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, and Eastern provinces. The districts of Hambantota, Gampaha, Colombo, and Monaragala may also experience these windy conditions.

Authorities are advising the general public to take necessary precautions to mitigate potential damage from temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.