The Department of Meteorology has issued a severe lightning advisory for districts across the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva, and North-western provinces, plus Galle and Matara districts, effective until 11.30 pm today(21).

A red alert has been issued for 14 districts, with nine districts under an amber alert.

The department warns of temporary localised strong winds during thundershowers and urges the public to take necessary precautions to minimise damage caused by lightning activity.