Deep depression over Southeast Bay of Bengal could intensify into cyclonic storm: Met Dept

By chathuranga samarawickrama  

The Meteorology Department said today that a deep depression over the Southeast Bay of Bengal has formed up and expected to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a cyclonic storm this evening.

As a result of the above conditions, heavy rainfall of more than 100 mm can be expected in the Northern Province and Trincomalee District.

The deep depression was located 500 km east of Trincomalee over the Southeast Bay of Bengal and it is likely to move west-northwestwards.

Accordingly, a red alert on thunderstorms and adverse weather conditions has been issued for nine districts, including Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, Mannar, Trincomalee, Batticoloa, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa.  The general public are being warned to be vigilant of fallen trees and power lines and advised to take adequate precautionary measures to protect themselves from these dangers which includes damage caused by lightning, gusty winds during thunderstorms.

It is also cautioned to be in alert over the advisories issued by the department and contact the local disaster management agency for emergency assistance.