Warning: Peak period for lightning

By Nadia Fazlulhaq

The Meteorological Department has warned the public to be vigilant during thunderstorms. The warning comes in the wake of at least 12 deaths caused by lightning over the past three weeks.

Incidents of lightning killing eight persons and injuring 59 were reported last week. Those killed included five soldiers in Polonnaruwa, three persons in Gampaha and two in Bibile.

“This is the beginning of the inter-monsoon season, and the atmosphere is favourable to the development of thunderclouds, especially in areas that are experiencing hot weather,” said the department’s deputy director, S.H. Kariyawasam. “This is a peak period for lightning”

He said lighting and unusual weather behaviour have been experienced in most parts of the country. Mr. Kariyawasam said afternoon thundershowers were expected to develop in the Central, North Central, Uva and Sabaragamuwa provinces. The Colombo and Galle districts could experience morning showers and evening thunderstorms, he said, while other areas were likely to have afternoon thundershowers.

“April weather is characterised by mornings that are extra warm,” Mr. Kariyawasam said. “The inter-monsoon season is known for strong winds, thundershowers and uncomfortably warm conditions.”

Tips from Meteorological Dept. to minimise exposure to lightning

• Avoid wide, open areas

• Avoid standing under or near solitary trees, and also hilltops

• Whether in a building or in a car, keep all doors and windows closed.

• Avoid riding bicycles in open areas

• Unplug all electrical appliances

• Use the telephone only in an emergency

• Avoid holding on to metal items and wire fences

• Use only safe shelters, such as full-size buildings (these include houses and business establishments)

• Avoid standing near metal doors and metal window frames

• Avoid any objects that conduct electricity and are plugged into a wall socket. These include electrical outlets, electric lights, telephones, desktop computers and television sets.