CURRENTS

The currents are monsoonal in character. During the SW monsoon (May to September), the general direction of flow through Palk Strait is N E from Gulf of Mannar. This flow reverses during the N E Monsoon (December to January). Rates are generally less than 1 knot but changes may on occasion be markedly different from average conditions and rates of 2 knots may occur with strong winds. Rates of 5-6 knots may be encountered in the Pamban Pass during S W Monsoon.
Along the N E coast of Sri Lanka currents are dominated by circulation in the Bay of Bengal with southerly sets from July to January and reversal from February to June. They can often be strong, although average rates are of the order of 1 knot. For further information see Sailing Directions.