The Department of Meteorology has issued an ‘Amber’ advisory warning of severe lightning for the Southern Province and the districts of Colombo, Kaluthara, Monaragala, and Rathnapura. 

The alert, issued today (17) at noon, will remain in effect until 11:00 p.m. 

It predicts thundershowers with severe lightning, likely to occur in these areas after 1:00 p.m. 

There is a possibility of temporary localized strong winds during the storms.

The public is urged to exercise caution and take necessary measures to avoid damage and ensure safety during these weather conditions.