Amber alert issued for severe lightning in four districts

Colombo, March 21 (Daily Mirror) - The Department of Meteorology has issued an Amber advisory warning of severe lightning in several parts of the country.

According to the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre, thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur in Galle, Matara, Kalutara and Rathnapura districts after 1.00 p.m. today.

The advisory, issued at 12.30 p.m., also said the possibility of temporary localized strong winds during thundershowers.

The public has been urged to take necessary precautions to minimize damage caused by lightning activity. Authorities advised people to seek shelter indoors, avoid open areas such as paddy fields and water bodies, and refrain from using wired electrical appliances during thunderstorms.

Residents were also cautioned against remaining in open vehicles and advised to stay alert for falling trees and power lines.

The Department of Meteorology further instructed the public to contact local disaster management authorities in case of emergencies.