The Meteorology Department has released an amber warning for severe lightning for Sabaragamuwa, Central and Western Provinces and in Galle, Matara, Batticaloa, Ampara and Badulla Districts.

Thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning are likely to occur at several places in Sabaragamuwa, Central and Western provinces and in Galle, Matara, Batticaloa, Ampara and Badulla districts.

Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places.

There may be temporary localized strong winds during thundershowers.

The public is urged 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.