Severe thunderstorm warning for next six hours: Met. Dep.

The Meteorology Department warned of thunderstorms accompanied by severe lightning and thunder in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern and North-western provinces during the next six hours starting from 3.00 pm today.

It said temporarily strong gusty winds speeding up to 70-80 kmph were also expected during thundershowers.   

Meanwhile, the Department warned the public to seek shelter, preferably indoors and covered vehicles.

“Never seek shelter under trees during a thunderstorm. Never go in the open areas like paddy fields, tea plantations and open water bodies,” it said.

The Department also warned the general public of using wired telephones and connected electric appliances during thunderstorms.

It also warned people not to travel in open vehicles, such as bicycles, tractors and boats.