Chilaw sits in Sri Lanka’s North Western province, a transitional zone that receives rainfall from both the southwest and northeast monsoons but in smaller amounts than the wetter southwest.
On the northwest coast between the wet and dry zones, the town’s rivers respond to rainfall from both of Sri Lanka’s monsoon seasons. This intermediate rainfall pattern means the region’s rivers and drainage systems can be tested by either monsoon season, and radar helps distinguish routine showers from the more intense rain bands that can cause local flooding. Learn more: Flash Flood Warning Signs on Radar · Open the full Rain Map