October 10, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Department of Meteorology has issued an Amber-level warning over the risk of severe lightning in several parts of the country, urging residents to take precautions as thunderstorms are expected to develop in affected areas.
The advisory was released at 11.00 am on October 10 and will remain in force until 1.00 am on October 11.
The warning covers the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva, North Western and Southern provinces, together with the districts of Anuradhapura, Mannar and Vavuniya.
According to the department, several locations within these areas could experience thundershowers accompanied by intense lightning. Localised strong winds may also occur temporarily during storm activity, potentially creating additional hazards for people outdoors.
Residents in the affected regions have been urged to remain alert and take appropriate safety measures to reduce the risk of injury and property damage. People are advised to seek shelter indoors when thunderstorms approach and avoid exposed locations during periods of severe lightning.
The public should also avoid taking shelter beneath isolated trees, keep away from open fields and bodies of water, and exercise caution around electrical equipment during thunderstorms. Outdoor activities should be suspended when lightning becomes imminent.
The warning highlights the need for vigilance as changing weather conditions could bring sudden thunderstorms and hazardous lightning to multiple parts of the island during the advisory period.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official weather updates and follow safety guidance until the warning expires.
