A depression currently located over the northwest Bay of Bengal, northeast of Sri Lanka is expected to intensify into a deep depression within the next 12 hours, according to the latest weather advisory.

Although the system is not expected to directly affect Sri Lanka, its influence is likely to bring unsettled weather conditions across several parts of the island, particularly in the southwest, as winds continue to flow towards the developing system.

Showers or thundershowers are expected at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-Western provinces and in the Galle and Matara districts. Some areas could receive heavy rainfall exceeding 100mm.

Several spells of showers are also forecast for the North Central Province and the Mannar District.

Meanwhile, strong winds of around 40 to 50 kilometres per hour are expected at times over the western slopes of the Central Hills, North Central and North-Western provinces and in the Trincomalee, Hambantota and Matale districts.

Authorities have advised the general public to take necessary precautions against possible damage caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thunderstorms.

People in areas expected to receive heavy rainfall have been urged to remain vigilant as the weather system over the Bay of Bengal continues to intensify.