More rain in Sri Lanka likely, depression turns to storm: Met Dept

May 19, 2016 (LBO) – Sri Lanka’s Met Department says the deep depression in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm ‘ROANU’ which is moving away from the island. Nevertheless, an increase of rainfall in parts of the island is likely. “There is a high possibility to sudden increase of rain in the South-western part of the country,” the latest forecast for 20th May, released at noon, said. “Strong windy conditions over the country and in the sea areas around the island will continue during next few days due to the meeting of wind feeding to the system." If so, fairly heavy to very heavy rainfall (100mm-150mm) are also expected at some places, the forecast said. The department says that the deep depression in the Bay of Bengal has intensified in to a Cyclonic storm ‘ROANU’ now located about 600km north of Kankasanturai. It is further moving away from the island. Showers or thunder showers will occur at times in Western, North-Western, Central and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in the Galle, Matara and Mannar districts. Showers or thunder showers will occur at several places in the Anuradhapura and Hambantota districts. There may be temporary localized strong winds during thundershowers. General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by lightning activity. The Met Dept statement can be viewed here (Weather image source: AccuWeather)