Red Alert Issued as Depression Approaches Sri Lanka’s Southeast

Red Alert Issued as Deep Depression Approaches Sri Lanka’s Southeast Coast

The Department of Meteorology has issued a Red Alert warning for Sri Lanka’s southeast coast as a deep depression in the Bay of Bengal intensifies. Authorities are urging residents, particularly in coastal areas, and maritime operators to take necessary safety precautions immediately.

According to the latest updates, the system is currently situated approximately 250 km southeast of Pottuvil and is moving west-northwest across the Southwest Bay of Bengal. Forecasts indicate that the depression is likely to make landfall between Hambantota and Batticaloa today evening (Jan 9), between 5:30 PM and 11:30 PM.

The weather disturbance is already impacting the island, with rising winds and heavy rainfall expected to intensify from today. The Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva, and Central provinces are considered particularly vulnerable to the severe conditions.

Officials have stressed the importance of staying updated through official channels and following safety measures, especially for communities near rivers, low-lying areas, and the coastline. Emergency services are on standby as the nation braces for potentially hazardous weather.