from 8 January 2026 onward, particularly in the Northern, North Central, Eastern, Uva and Central Provinces.
Official Met Department Forecast
According to the Department of Meteorology forecast issued at 5.30 a.m. on 7 January 2026:
- Showery conditions will enhance over the island, especially in Northern, North Central, Eastern, Uva and Central Provinces from 8 January.
- Showers will occur at times in Uva Province and in Batticaloa, Ampara, Polonnaruwa, Matale and Hambantota Districts, with fairly heavy rainfall above 50 mm likely at some locations.
- Several spells of showers will occur in the Northern Province and in Anuradhapura and Trincomalee Districts.
- Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places elsewhere in the island after 1.00 p.m.
- Strong winds of about 50 kmph can be expected at times over the eastern slopes of the Central Hills,
Northern, North Central, North Western and Eastern Provinces and in Hambantota, Gampaha, Colombo and Monaragala Districts.
The general public has been advised to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary, localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Read the full advisory here: Official Met Department advisory – 7 January 2026
What This Means For The Pekoe Trail
The Pekoe Trail passes through sensitive areas of the Central Highlands that can be affected quickly by heavy rainfall, strong winds and unstable ground conditions. During periods of unsettled weather there is an increased risk of:
- Slippery and unstable footpaths
- Rapid runoff near streams, culverts and drainage lines
- Falling branches, debris and loose material on slopes
- Reduced visibility at higher elevations
- Local landslide risk in steep terrain
- Transport and access disruptions on approach roads
We therefore recommend careful planning and conservative decision making if you are considering hiking during this period of unsettled weather.
Current Stage Status
Our most recent detailed update on trail stages: The Pekoe Trail Stage Update – 6 January 2026
At this time, the majority of stages remain hikeable with caution, with isolated clearance and maintenance work continuing as part of post Cyclone Ditwah recovery.
The Pekoe Trail Organization temporarily closed several Stages during Cyclone Ditwah in November 2025.
We will not hesitate to take similar action again if conditions require it.
Recommendations For Hikers And Operators
If you are planning to hike in the coming days
- Check the latest weather reports before departure.
- Review the latest Pekoe Trail stage status on our website or The Pekoe Trail Watch App.
- Purchase your trail passes.
- Avoid hiking during unsettled weather.
- Consider shorter routes and flexible plans that allow early turnaround.
- Be prepared for wet and windy conditions, including rapidly changing visibility.
- Turn back immediately if you encounter unsafe conditions or if the weather deteriorates.
Please avoid
- River and stream crossings during or immediately after heavy rain.
- Exposed ridgelines and viewpoints during strong winds or thunderstorms.
- Walking close to unstable banks, cuttings or steep slopes.
Safety essentials if you are on trail:
- Wear proper footwear with good grip and ankle support.
- Carry a waterproof layer, warm clothing and a cover for your backpack.
- Keep mobile phones charged and carry a power bank where possible.
- Inform a friend, family member or accommodation provider of your route and timings.
- Follow the advice of local communities, trail hosts and guides.
Stage Color Guide:
🟢 Clear: Stage is Open and Clear from Warnings.
🟡Minor Impact: stage is hikeable. Hike with caution and check regular trail status updates and weather conditions before departure.
🟠Moderate Impact: Hiking remains possible with precautions and under all current weather advisories. Solo hiking not recommended. Travel in group or with Trail Host.
🔴 High Impact: Stage is temporarily closed due to high-risk conditions, limited access, or because they have not yet been fully evaluated for safety.
Ongoing Monitoring And Further Updates
This advisory has been issued to support safe planning for those considering hiking the Pekoe Trail in the coming days. If the low pressure system intensifies further or if new risks are identified on specific stages, we will provide additional updates, including temporary closures where required.
For the latest official weather information, please follow the Department of Meteorology and trusted news channels. For trail specific status and advisories, please continue to visit: thepekoetrail.org
