Met office issues lightning alert

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department's (BMD) Storm Warning Centre has issued a lightning alert, suggesting ways to remain safe from lightning strikes. 

"Rain or thundershowers accompanied by lightning flashes and temporary gusty or squally wind with the speed of 45-60 kph or more is likely to occur over the districts of Rajshahi, Natore, Pabna, Sirajganj, Tangail, Manikganj, Dhaka, Narsingdi, Rangpur, Gaibandha, Sherpur, Netrakona, Mymensingh, Sunamganj, Kishoreganj, Bahmanbaria, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Sylhet, Rangamati, and Bandarban districts," according to a BMD alert issued Monday morning. 

BMD instructed people to stay indoors when thunder roars, and to close windows and door. Travelling was discouraged, and in case lightning strikes or hail starts, take safe shelter. Taking shelter under trees, lying or leaning on concrete walls or floors was discouraged. 

During a lightning storm, using electrical or electronic devices was discouraged. In addition, it was advised to keep away from objects that conduct electricity. People must get out of water bodies when lightning starts.