According to the severe wind weather warning issued by the Department of Meteorology at 10.00 a.m. today (07/08/2026), the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has issued a special notice to the entire fishing community, considering the extremely rough conditions prevailing in several sea areas around the island.

According to the relevant warning, wind speeds in the sea areas from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota, and from Kalpitiya to Colombo via Chilaw and Negombo, may occasionally increase to as high as 70 kilometres per hour. As a result, these sea areas may become rough or very rough, making them extremely hazardous for coastal fishing activities.

Therefore, with immediate effect, small vessels engaged in one-day and coastal fishing activities in these areas have been advised to refrain from going out to sea.

Furthermore, fishing vessels departing from other areas where no hazardous conditions have been reported have also been specifically advised to refrain from engaging in fishing activities in the sea areas from Matara to Pottuvil and from Colombo to Kalpitiya via Negombo.

The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has also requested the entire fishing community to remain constantly attentive to weather forecasts issued in the future regarding the prevailing weather conditions, and to act responsibly by strictly following all safety instructions.