The Department of Meteorology has warned that the current low-level atmospheric disturbance to the southeast of Sri Lanka is expected to intensify, bringing significantly enhanced rainfall to much of the island starting Thursday, 8 January.

Fairly heavy falls above 75 mm are predicted for today and tomorrow in the Uva province and the districts of Nuwara Eliya, Matale, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa, and Ampara.

Gusts of up to 50 kmph are expected at times over the eastern slopes of the central hills, the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, and Eastern provinces, as well as in Hambantota, Gampaha, Colombo, and Monaragala.

The public is urged to take precautions against lightning and localized strong winds. This weather system follows the massive disruption caused by Cyclone Ditwah, complicating ongoing relief and school reopening efforts.