Extreme Weather; Amber Advisory Issued for Severe Lightning

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Department of Meteorology has issued an Amber Advisory for Severe Lightning.

According to the advisory, thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur at several places in the Uva and Eastern provinces and in Mulatttivu, Vavuniya and Polonnaruwa districts. 

There may be temporary localized strong winds during thundershowers. 

The Department of Meteorology advises that people should:

1. Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never
under trees.

2. Avoid open areas such as paddy fields, tea
plantations and open water bodies during thunderstorms.

3. Avoid using wired telephones and connected electric appliances during thunderstorms.

4. Avoid using open vehicles, such as bicycles, tractors and boats etc.

5. Beware of fallen trees and power lines.

6. For emergency assistance, contact the local disaster management authorities.