The Department of Meteorology has issued a ‘Red’ warning for strong winds and rough seas.

Due to the effect of the active southwest monsoon condition, the sea areas off the coasts extending from Chilaw to Kankesanthurai via Puttalam and Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be rough with strong wind gusts up to 60-70 kilometres per hour, the Meteorology Department warned.

Accordingly, the Naval and fishing communities have been advised not to venture into these sea areas, until further notice. The Naval and fishing communities have also been requested to be attentive to future forecasts issued by the Department in this regard.