COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – September 06, 2026 – The Department of Meteorology (DMC), through its Forecasting Division at the National Meteorological Centre, has issued its general weather forecast for Sri Lanka for September 6, 2026. The advisory, released at 5:30 a.m. today, indicates varied weather patterns across the island, with a particular focus on fairly heavy rainfall in certain regions and rough sea conditions.
Island-wide Weather Conditions Expected
According to the latest forecast, showers or thundershowers are anticipated at several places in the Uva, Central, and Eastern provinces, as well as in the Polonnaruwa and Mullaittivu districts, particularly after 2:00 p.m. Residents in Uva and Eastern provinces should prepare for fairly heavy falls exceeding 75 mm in some areas.
Meanwhile, the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces, along with Galle and Matara districts, are expected to experience a few showers during the day.
Public Advisory: Thunderstorm Safety
The DMC has issued a crucial public safety warning, urging citizens to take adequate precautions. This is to minimize potential damage caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning, which are commonly associated with thundershowers. These conditions can pose significant risks, and preparedness is advised.
Sun Overhead Phenomenon
Adding an astronomical detail to the forecast, the DMC noted that the sun’s apparent southward relative motion places it directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka between August 28th and September 7th. Specifically for today, September 6th, the sun will be directly overhead at approximately 12:08 noon in areas including Bentota, Thiniyawala, Iththakanda, Udawalawe, and Kataragama.
Marine Weather Outlook for the Next 24 Hours
For the sea areas surrounding the island, a distinct forecast has been issued:
- Rainfall: A few showers may occur in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle. Showers or thundershowers are also likely at several places in the sea areas off the coast stretching from Mullaittivu to Pottuvil via Trincomalee and Batticaloa, particularly during the evening or night.
- Winds: Winds will generally be South-westerly, with speeds ranging from 30-40 kmph. However, wind speeds can increase significantly, reaching up to 55 kmph at times, in the sea areas off the coasts extending from Hambantota to Pottuvil and from Kankasanthurai to Puttalam via Mannar.
- Sea State: The sea areas off the coasts extending from Hambantota to Pottuvil and from Kankasanthurai to Puttalam via Mannar will be fairly rough at times. Mariners are advised that temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
The Department of Meteorology defines rainfall amounts as follows: Light: 00-12.5 mm, Light to moderate: 12.5-25 mm, Moderate: 25-50 mm, Fairly heavy rain: 50-100 mm, Heavy rain: 100-150 mm, Very heavy rain: 150 mm or more.
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