A new low-pressure system developing over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 26, while Sri Lanka is likely to experience increased rainfall over the next few days, the Department of Meteorology has warned.
According to the weather forecast issued at 2 p.m. on October 23, the new low-pressure area has formed near the North Andaman Islands and is expected to intensify into a depression by October 24.
The system is then forecast to move west-northwestwards, strengthening into a deep depression by October 25 before developing into a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26.
However, the Meteorology Department said the developing weather system is not expected to directly affect Sri Lanka.
Nevertheless, increased rainfall is expected over the southwestern parts of the island during the next few days due to wind patterns associated with the system.
Meanwhile, the low-pressure area previously located near Sri Lanka is moving westwards, away from the island.
For October 24, showers or thundershowers are forecast at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Northern and North-western provinces, as well as in the Galle and Matara districts.
Fairly heavy rainfall exceeding 75 mm is expected in some areas.
The public has been advised to take precautions against temporary strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Misty conditions are also expected in parts of the Central and Uva provinces during the early morning hours.
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