The Department of Meteorology has issued an amber-level advisory warning of severe lightning in several parts of Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara.
According to the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre, thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur in several areas during the afternoon and night.
The warning is valid from 1:00 p.m. on Saturday (7) until 1:00 a.m. on Sunday (8).
The advisory covers all Divisional Secretariat divisions in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Galle, Hambantota, Matara, Kandy, Matale, Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Ratnapura, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Puttalam, Mannar, Monaragala and Vavuniya.
Several areas in Anuradhapura, Ampara, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu and Polonnaruwa districts are also included in the warning.
The Meteorology Department warned that severe lightning could pose a risk of serious injury or death to people outdoors, while thunderstorms could disrupt outdoor activities, transport, electricity and communication services.
Strong winds and heavy rainfall may also accompany the thunderstorms.
The public has been advised to seek shelter inside secure buildings or enclosed vehicles and avoid open areas, isolated trees, beaches, lakes and other water bodies during thunderstorms.
People have also been urged to avoid using electrical appliances and wired electrical systems during lightning activity.
The Department recommended postponing outdoor sporting events, construction work and other outdoor activities when thunderstorms approach.
The advisory has been classified as having a high likelihood of occurrence and a medium potential impact.
A further weather update is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (Newswire)
