Sri Lanka issues red alert as deep depression intensifies into cyclone

Sri Lanka's Department of Meteorology on Thursday issued a red alert for both land and surrounding sea areas as the deep depression that had formed near the Sri Lankan coast in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclone, now named "Ditwah."

Officials warned that heavy rains, strong winds, and hazardous sea conditions are expected to persist across the island over the coming days as the system advances.

The department said extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm is possible in the Northern, North Central, Central, and North Western provinces, as well as the Trincomalee district. Rainfall above 150 mm is expected in parts of the Sabaragamuwa and Western provinces, and in the Badulla and Batticaloa districts.

The advisory also warned of dangerous maritime conditions, with strong winds up to 70 km/h and higher gusts expected over sea areas around the island. Seas are forecast to be very rough, with swell waves rising between 3 and 4 meters, especially off the coastline stretching from Puttalam to Kankasanthurai via Colombo, Galle, Hambantota, Batticaloa, and Trincomalee. Naval and fishing communities were strongly advised to avoid venturing into the sea until further notice.

Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant regarding severe weather conditions expected through Nov. 30 and to follow updates issued by the Department of Meteorology. Residents were also encouraged to seek assistance from local disaster management officials in case of emergencies.

xinhua