The Department of Meteorology today (15) issued a ‘Red’ warning for heavy rain, gusty winds and rough seas.

The low-pressure area over south-east Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood is likely to develop into a depression over the same region during next 12 hours and further intensify into a cyclonic storm over the south Bay of Bengal tomorrow (16th), the advisory read.

It is very likely to move north-westwards initially till 17th and then re-curve north and north-eastwards towards North Bay of Bengal during 18th-20th May.

Sea areas:

Under the influence of the system possibility for heavy showers or thundershowers and sudden roughness, associated with a sudden increase of wind speed up to 60-70kmph is high in shallow and deep sea areas around the island during next 24hours.

There is a possibility that nearshore sea areas off the coast extending from Mannar to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota may experience surges due to the effect of swell waves, having (2.0-2.5) m height.

Naval and fishing communities have been advised not to venture into the shallow and deep sea areas around the island until further notice. Meanwhile, those who are out at Sea over these regions have been urged to return to coasts or moved safer areas immediately.

Land areas:

Heavy falls about 150 mm can be expected at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Central provinces.

The wind speed can be increased up to 40 -50kmph over the island.

People living in hill areas (particularly landslide-prone areas) are requested to be vigilant.