Colombo, November 27 (Daily Mirror) - The deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal is likely to move closer to the east coast of Sri Lanka and intensify into a cyclonic storm within the next 12 hours, the Meteorology Department said.

As of 8:30 a.m. today, the deep depression was located about 120 kms east of Trincomalee.

Under the influence of this system, heavy rainfall exceeding 150 mm is expected in some areas. 

Thundershowers are likely in the Northern, North-Central, Central, Western, and North-Western Provinces, as well as in the Trincomalee and Kegalle districts.

Cloudy skies will prevail across most parts of the island. Very heavy showers and strong gusty winds are anticipated in the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, North-Western, and Central Provinces.

Showers are also expected at times in other parts of the island, with fairly heavy rainfall above 75 mm possible in certain locations.

Strong winds of up to 50 km/h may occur occasionally in the Northern, North-Central, Central, Western, North-Western, Southern and Eastern Provinces.

The public is advised to take adequate precautions to minimise damage caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.