Oct 23, Sigiriya: Sri Lanka's world famous Sigiriya rock fortress was damaged Tuesday after it was struck by lightning during heavy thunder showers experienced in the area.

Local media reported that a wall near the Lion's Paw in the Sigiriya Rock has been damaged by the lightning strike this afternoon.

Around 10 feet wide portion of the wall on the side of the Lion's Paw, which is the entrance to the historic rock, has fallen off due to the lightning.

The overseeing authority, Central Cultural Fund said the damage is not severe and repairs will be commenced tomorrow.

Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the major tourist attractions of Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, the Director of Meteorology Department Pradeep Kodippili said that 41 people have been killed by lightning within the past few months. He warned the public to stay indoors and avoid being in open areas during thunderstorms.

Sri Lanka's north central region is currently experiencing heavy rains after months of drought.