(UTV | COLOMBO) – The Natural Hazards Early Warning Center has issued a warning of severe lightning to several provinces, which is valid until 10pm today.
According to the warning, “Thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur at several places in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Western, North-western and Northern provinces and in Galle, Matara and Anuradhapura districts. Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in these areas.”
It further stated that, “There may be temporary localized strong winds during thundershowers. General public is requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by lightning activity”.
The Department of Meteorology advises that people should: seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees, avoid open areas such as paddy fields, tea plantations and open water bodies during thunderstorms, avoid using wired telephones and connected electric appliances during thunderstorms. Avoid using open vehicles, such as bicycles, tractors and boats etc. Beware of fallen trees and power lines. For emergency assistance contact the local disaster management authorities.