The Department of Meteorology has issued a severe lightning advisory covering 18 districts on Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day, valid from 12:30pm to 11:00pm on April 13.
The Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre said thundershowers with severe lightning are likely after 1:00pm across the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-Western, North-Central and Uva provinces, as well as the districts of Galle, Matara, Mannar and Vavuniya. Temporary localised strong winds are also expected.
Authorities have urged the public to take precautions, particularly as many celebrate Avurudu outdoors:
- Seek shelter indoors and avoid taking cover under trees
- Avoid open areas including paddy fields, tea plantations and water bodies
- Refrain from using wired telephones and electrical appliances during thunderstorms
- Avoid open vehicles such as bicycles, tractors and boats
- Be cautious of fallen trees and power lines
Residents have been advised to contact local disaster management authorities in case of emergencies.
The advisory adds to the challenges of this year’s New Year period, which has already seen 49 road deaths in one week and continued disruption from the energy crisis. Weather conditions are expected to improve overnight.
