Cyclone ‘Ornab’ Makes Landfall in India as Sri Lanka’s Weather Conditions Gradually Improve

The severe cyclonic storm “Ornab”, which was located over the west-central Bay of Bengal, has made landfall along the coast of Andhra Pradesh in India and is expected to gradually weaken, according to Department of Meteorology Forecasting Division Director Meril Mendis.

As a result, the impact of the weather system on Sri Lanka is expected to gradually decrease. However, some effects are likely to persist, and fishing activities in the Bay of Bengal should be avoided, Mendis warned.

Several spells of showers are expected in the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces, as well as in the Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Galle and Matara districts. Heavy rainfall is not expected.

Strong winds of around 50–60 km/h may occur at times along the western slopes of the central hills, in the Northern, North Central and North Western provinces, and in the Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.

The public has been advised to take necessary precautions to minimise the risk of accidents caused by temporary strong winds and lightning associated with thundershowers.

Meanwhile, inter-monsoon weather conditions are expected to become active again. Mendis noted that disturbances frequently develop over the Bay of Bengal during this month and urged the public to remain alert to official weather advisories.