According to the Strong Wind Weather Warning issued by the Department of Meteorology today (08/08/2026) at 08.30 a.m., in view of the extremely rough sea conditions prevailing in several areas around the island, the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has issued a special notice to the entire fishing community.

As stated in the relevant notice,wind speeds in the sea areas extending from Matara through Hambantota to Pottuvil, and from Chilaw through Kalpitiya to Mannar, may occasionally increase to as high as 70 kilometres per hour. As a result, these sea areas may become rough or very rough, making fishing activities in coastal areas extremely hazardous.

Therefore, the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources advises fishermen to refrain from engaging in fishing activities in the sea areas from Matara to Pottuvil and from Chilaw through Kalpitiya to Mannar, and vessels departing from other areas are advised not to enter these hazardous zones. The Department further kindly requests the entire fishing community to pay close attention to future weather advisories and strictly follow all safety instructions.