Red Warning Issued for Strong Winds and Rough Seas Along Northern and North-Western Coasts
Colombo, June 8, 2026 — The Department of Meteorology has issued a red warning for coastal and sea areas extending from Kankesanthurai through Mannar to Kalpitiya due to strong winds and rough sea conditions.
The warning, issued at 10:30 a.m. today (June 8), will remain in effect until 10:30 a.m. tomorrow (June 9), according to the Department of Meteorology.
Under the advisory, wind speeds in the sea areas between Kankesanthurai, Mannar, and Kalpitiya are expected to increase to 60–70 km/h at times, while sea conditions are likely to become very rough. Fishermen and naval personnel have been strongly advised not to venture into these sea areas until further notice.
The department also warned that winds could increase to 50–60 km/h in coastal and sea areas extending from Trincomalee to Kankesanthurai and from Kalpitiya to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle, and Hambantota. Sea conditions in these areas are also expected to be rough.
In addition, wave heights in the sea areas from Mannar to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle, and Hambantota may increase to 2.0–2.5 metres, posing further risks to marine activities.
The Department of Meteorology has urged fishing and maritime communities to remain vigilant and closely follow future weather advisories and warnings issued by the department.
