The Department of Meteorology has issued an amber advisory for severe lightning in six provinces and four additional districts, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by intense lightning and temporary strong winds.
The advisory, issued at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday (October 18), will remain valid until 1 a.m. on Monday (October 19).
According to the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre, thunderstorms accompanied by severe lightning are likely at several locations in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North Central, Eastern and Uva provinces.
The warning also covers the Kurunegala, Jaffna, Vavuniya and Mullaitivu districts.
The department warned that temporary localized strong winds could occur during thunderstorms and urged the public to take necessary precautions to minimize damage caused by lightning.
Residents have been advised to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees and stay away from open areas, including paddy fields, tea plantations and bodies of water.
The public has also been urged to avoid using wired telephones, connected electrical appliances and open vehicles such as bicycles, tractors and boats during thunderstorms.
Authorities further advised residents to remain alert to fallen trees and power lines and contact local disaster management authorities in emergencies.
The amber advisory indicates that the public should remain prepared for potentially dangerous weather conditions. (Newswire)