Inter-monsoon conditions are already being seen across the island. Maximum lightning activity tends to occur during this season. The Meteorological Department has warned the public to be careful and vigilant and minimise their exposure to the risks of lightning.
Every year, during the first inter-monsoon season, we witness thunderstorms that produce high intensity lightning and tornadoes.
When articles about lightning appear in the local newspapers, we see a lot of confusion in terminology.
“Lightning” is not the same as “lighting” or “lightening”, although these three words are often used as if they meant the same thing. “Lighting” refers to the light that illuminates houses, buildings and streets. “Lightening” means reducing the weight of something.
“Lightning” is the visible electric discharge between clouds or between clouds and the ground. Lightning is the natural hazardous phenomenon generated by thunderstorms.
When we write about lightning, let us not confuse the reader with the wrong words.
K. R. Abhayasingha,
Former Director, Meteorology
Department,
Menikdiwela |
E-mail
