The Natural Hazards Early Warning Center has issued a warning of severe lightning to several provinces, which is valid until 11 p.m. today.
According to the warning, “Thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur at several places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western and Uva provinces and in Mannar, Anuradhapura, Galle and Matara districts. Heavy rainfalls above 100 mm can be expected at some places in Sabaragamuwa, Central, Western, Uva, North-western and Southern provinces."
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.