COLOMBO (News 1st); The natural Hazards Early Warning Center has issued an amber advisory for severe lightning for today (22).

According to the Meteorological Department, thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur at several places in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva, North-central and Eastern provinces and in Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Hambantota Districts.

There may also be temporary localized strong winds during thundershowers. General public has been requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by lightning activity.

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.

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