Lightning strikes one dead, 2 more injured

Colombo (News 1st): Heavy showers are predicted in several areas during the next few hours. However, many tragedies struck around the country due to the prevailing weather. Anuradhapura A man was killed and another injured due to a lightning strike in Gonawa, Rambewa, Anuradhapura. Father of the deceased noted that his son was behind him when lightning struck. He noted a light suddenly appeared and a while later all five of them (son-in-law, son, daughter, his wife and him) were on the floor. A resident noted that the main reason behind the death is the white gold chain he was wearing. The resident said the concrete wall had collapsed on the rest of the family members. The deceased has been identified as a 19-year-old resident of Gonawa. The 31-year-old who sustained severe injuries is currently receiving treatment at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital. Kilinochchi An 18-year-old female from Kilinochchi was admitted to hospital, upon sustaining injuries from a lightning strike. News 1st correspondent in the area stated that she was struck by lightning while using her mobile device. Meteorology Department's Advice  Issuing a Special Advisory for Severe Lightning and Heavy Rainfall the Department of Meteorology requests the general public to take precautionary measures to minimize damages caused by lightning. The Meteorology Department 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. It also advises the general public to refrain from using wired telephones and connected electric appliances during thunderstorms.