Fishermen operating small fishing vessels along Sri Lanka’s northern and eastern coast have been warned to stay ashore until further notice following the development of the cyclonic storm “Murasu” over the west-central and adjoining areas of the Bay of Bengal.
The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources issued the warning after the Department of Meteorology announced today that the developing storm was likely to bring extremely strong winds and rough sea conditions to the affected maritime areas.
The advisory covers fishing areas stretching from Kalpitiya through Mannar, Kilinochchi, Jaffna and Mullaitivu to Trincomalee.
Fishermen who have already gone out to sea in small vessels have been urged to immediately seek shelter in safer locations or return to shore, as the prevailing weather conditions pose a serious risk to their safety.
Authorities have also advised fishermen operating in other parts of the country to exercise caution and closely monitor local wind and sea conditions before heading out to sea.
The Department has further stressed the importance of wearing life jackets throughout fishing operations, including when travelling to and from fishing grounds.
The fishing community has been urged to remain alert and follow further weather advisories issued by the Department of Meteorology and the Department of Fisheries.
