The Department of Meteorology has issued red-level severe lightning warnings for the Ampara and Batticaloa districts, while amber-level advisories have been issued for the remaining 23 districts.
According to the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre, thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely at several places in the Ampara and Batticaloa districts.
The advisory, issued at 11.30 a.m. today (27), will remain valid until 11.30 p.m. tonight.
The department warned that temporary, localised strong winds may also occur during thundershowers and urged the public to take adequate precautions to minimise damage caused by lightning.
The public has been advised to seek shelter indoors, avoid standing under trees and stay away from open areas, including paddy fields, tea plantations and open water bodies during thunderstorms.
People have also been advised to avoid using wired telephones, connected electrical appliances and open vehicles such as bicycles, tractors and boats.
The department further urged the public to remain cautious of fallen trees and power lines and to contact local disaster management authorities in the event of an emergency. (Newswire)
