Heavy rain falls across the country

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Department of Meteorology made a special announcement on the possible heavy rainfalls of about 100 mm at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, North-Western and Central provinces and in Galle and Matara districts. Thunderstorms accompanied by severe lightning and thunder are likely to occur in the areas with the warning. Strong gusty winds up to 70-80 kmph are also possible during thundershowers.     The Department of Meteorology 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.
• 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.