The Department of Meteorology has forecast an increase in rainfall in several parts of the island, including the South-Western region, from tomorrow (25).

Meteorologist Sachith Wickramanayake said showers were particularly likely in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Galle and Matara districts.

Several spells of rain were experienced yesterday (23) in the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces, as well as in the Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts. A few showers may also occur in the North-Western Province.

Showers or thundershowers are likely in the Ampara, Batticaloa and Monaragala districts during the evening or night, while mainly dry weather is expected elsewhere, he said.

He further warned that the apparent temperature in the Northern, North-Central and Eastern regions could rise to between 39°C and 45°C.

In areas such as Polonnaruwa, temperatures are already exceeding 32°C by 8.30 a.m. Therefore, spending time outdoors between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. could be risky, he added.

The public has been advised to limit outdoor activities during the afternoon, drink plenty of water and remain in cool places.

Meanwhile, the Department of Meteorology said sea areas from Kankesanthurai to Chilaw via Mannar, and from Hambantota to Pottuvil, could become occasionally rough as wind speeds may increase to 60 kilometres per hour.