The Department of Meteorology and the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) issued a Red alert for severe coastal sea conditions today, September 26, 2026, advising naval, fishing, and seaside residential communities to maintain strict precautions.

Active sea swells generating waves between 2.0 and 3.0 meters are impacting coastal fringes from Chilaw down through Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, and Matara toward Pottuvil. Oceanographers explained that strong monsoonal surface wind shears combined with low-pressure sea surges are causing localized seawater intrusion across near-shore roadways and fishing anchorages. The Disaster Management Centre has advised small craft and artisanal fishing vessels to suspend offshore operations until turbulent ocean swells subside.