Red alert issued for strong winds and rough seas along southern coast

August 3, 2026 at 10:03 PM

The Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre has issued a Red Warning for strong winds and rough seas affecting sea areas from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota, valid until 8.00 p.m. on August 4, 2026.

According to the warning issued at 8.00 p.m. today (August 3), the affected sea areas are expected to be very rough at times, with very strong gusty winds reaching 60–70 kmph.

Naval and fishing communities have been advised not to venture into these sea areas until further notice due to the hazardous conditions.

Meanwhile, sea areas extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombo are expected to experience rough conditions at times, with strong gusty winds of up to 50–60 kmph.

The Department of Meteorology has urged naval and fishing communities operating in the affected areas to remain vigilant and pay close attention to future weather forecasts and advisories. (Newswire)