The Meteorological Department has said that strong winds can be expected over surrounding sea areas of the island and fairly strong winds can be expected over the country.

It said the sea areas off the coast extending from Hambantota to Batticaloa via Pottuvil can be very rough at times as wind speeds can increase up to 60-70 kmph.

Wind speeds can increase up to 50-55 kmph in other sea areas and can be fairly rough at time, the Met. Department said, warning naval and fishing communities to be ‘vigilant’.