‘Amber’ alert issued for severe lightning in 7 provinces
November 3, 2023 06:17 pm
The Department of Meteorology on Friday (03 Nov.) issued an ‘Amber’ advisory for thundershowers and severe lightning in several parts of the island.
In the advisory issued this afternoon, the Department warned that thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur at several places in the Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and Southern, Northern, North-western and North-central provinces after 02:00 p.m, adding that heavy showers of nearly 100mm are also likely in certain areas.
The Meteorology Department further warned the public of the possibility of temporary localised strong winds during thundershowers, and thus requested that all adequate precautions be taken to minimise the possible damages caused by lightning activity.
The public have been 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
