The Department of Meteorology over the weekend issued an “Amber” colour advisory for thunderstorms and severe lightning in several parts of the island.

In the advisory, the Department warned that thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur at several places in the Northern, North-Central, Central, Uva, and Sabaragamuwa Provinces, and in the Badulla, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Mannar Districts, during the evening or night. The Department further warned the public of the possibility of temporary, localised strong winds during thundershowers, and requested that all adequate precautions be taken to minimise possible damages.

The public are advised to take the following actions in the event of severe lightning:

• 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