By Newswire Editorial
The Department of Meteorology has issued an amber warning for severe lightning and thunderstorms across several parts of Sri Lanka, with heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm expected in some areas.
According to the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre, heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern and Uva provinces.
The warning is valid from 1.00 p.m. today until 1.00 a.m. tomorrow (12).
The Met Department said there is an increased likelihood of severe lightning associated with thundershowers in several areas during the evening or night.
Strong gusty winds reaching speeds of 60–70 kmph and temporarily very rough sea conditions are also expected during thundershowers in sea areas.
The warning covers all Divisional Secretariat divisions in the Badulla, Colombo, Galle, Gampaha, Hambantota, Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Mannar, Matale, Matara, Monaragala, Nuwara Eliya, Polonnaruwa and Ratnapura districts.
Several areas in the Ampara, Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, Mullaitivu, Puttalam and Vavuniya districts are also expected to be affected.
The Met Department warned that thunderstorms could result in frequent lightning, strong winds, flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.
There is also a risk of trees being uprooted, damage to houses and property, power and communication interruptions, and disruptions to road, rail and air transport.
The public has been advised to avoid outdoor activities, including agricultural work, construction and sports, when thunderstorms approach.
People are also urged to avoid open fields, beaches, hilltops and water bodies, and to seek shelter inside secure buildings or enclosed vehicles during lightning.
Fishermen and small-boat operators have been advised not to venture into the sea and to return to shore early due to dangerous weather conditions.
The Met Department further advised the public to avoid travelling along tree-lined or flooded roads and to remain alert to flood and landslide warnings issued by relevant authorities. (Newswire)