The Department of Meteorology has issued an amber advisory warning of severe lightning for several areas across Sri Lanka, effective from 12 noon today (02) until 1.00 a.m. tomorrow (03).
According to the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre, thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur in several parts of the country.
The warning covers selected areas in 23 districts, including Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kandy, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Ratnapura, Batticaloa, Ampara, Badulla, Galle, Matara, Kegalle, Monaragala, Mullaitivu, Puttalam and Vavuniya.
All Divisional Secretariat divisions in Hambantota, Matale, Polonnaruwa and Trincomalee are also included in the warning.
The Meteorology Department cautioned that thunderstorms could disrupt outdoor activities and cause localised electrical and electronic disturbances.
The public has been advised to seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms and avoid standing under trees or remaining in open areas, including paddy fields, plantations and water bodies.
People are also urged to avoid using wired telephones, connected electrical appliances and open vehicles such as bicycles, tractors and boats during thunderstorms.
The Department further advised the public to remain alert to fallen trees and power lines and contact local disaster management authorities in the event of an emergency. (Newswire)
