News
Hot weather to persist till May; heat advisory issued
View(s):By Jayanie Madawala
The prevailing hot weather affecting several parts of the country is expected to continue until next week, with elevated temperatures likely to persist until May, the Meteorological Department warns.
The country is experiencing sunny to partly cloudy conditions, with scattered clouds and occasional passing showers, particularly in the afternoons or evenings.
Public urged to stay hydrated
The Met Dept Director General, Athula Karunayaka, said Sri Lanka is currently facing hot weather, even though some areas—including Galle, Matara, Kalutara, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya—receive 30–50 mm of rain, while others may receive up to 80 mm.
This weather pattern is typical of the first inter-monsoon period, when warm conditions are intensified by direct solar radiation. Due to its location near the equator, the country receives high levels of solar radiation, and reduced cloud cover during certain periods increases its direct impact on the earth’s surface.
The Department also noted that relatively low wind speeds also contribute to higher temperatures.
People engaging in outdoor activities have been advised to be vigilant about their health and to drink plenty of water.
Ratnapura, Jaffna, and Vavuniya continued to record the highest temperatures yesterday, prompting a heat advisory for several areas.
Thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely in parts of the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in the Galle and Matara districts in the evenings.
The Irrigation Department said that since the Maha cultivation season has already begun, demand for irrigation water is currently low.
Health officials warn that excessive heat can cause severe illness or death, with children and the elderly being most vulnerable.
They urge the public to stay hydrated: drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even if not thirsty; spend time in air-conditioned buildings such as malls or libraries; and take cool showers. They also advise limiting outdoor activities as much as possible, and schools are requested to conduct sports meets and big matches with adequate precautions.
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