By Krishan Jeewaka Jayaruka   

More than 4,400 people in the Matara district have been affected by floods and gale force winds. 

The District Secretary said 181 houses had been damaged by heavy rain and gale force wind and that the displaced individuals had been provided shelter in safer locations.   

Aturaliya division where 1,843 people in 434 families had been displaced was the worst affected. The Divisional Secretary said 52 houses in the area had been damaged.   

More than 1,300 people in 390 families had been affected and 50 houses damaged by floods. People in several other divisions including Dickwella, Malimboda, Devinuwara, Mulatiyana, Kirinda, Puhulwella, Hakmana were facing hardship due to the prevailing inclement weather.

• Aturaliya division where 1,843 people in 434 families had been displaced was the worst affected