Over 50,000 affected by dry spell

 APR 01 2019

The Disaster Management Centre today (1) said over 50,000 people were affected by the severe dry weather conditions prevailing across the island country and the worst affected areas have been identified as Vavuniya and Jaffna in the North.

Puttalam, in the North Western Province, Kegalle in the Sabaragamuwa Province, Matale in the Central Province and Kandy, in the Central highlands have also been badly affected due to the prevailing drought situation.

The Disaster Management Centre said lack of rains, especially in the mountainous areas had resulted in a severe water shortage in these areas.

Deputy Director of the Centre, Pradeep Kodippili said water bowsers were set up in several affected areas to supply fresh water to families.

Kodippili said the public have been warned to remain indoors due to the extreme weather conditions.
The Meteorology Department, in its latest weather update said that hot weather conditions were likely to rise further in the coming days but temporary local showers could also be expected.

Temperatures are expected to rise to as high as 41 degrees centigrade.