Extraordinary weather experienced all over the country

By Prasad Rukmal, Shantha Chandrasiri, Prasanna Pathmasiri and D.G.Sugathapla   

Extraordinary weather conditions were experienced all over the country yesterday, with dark foggy skies and in several areas a thin covering of dust. Gale force winds had caused much havoc in the Badulla District, where more than 720 houses were extensively damaged and three individuals injured.   

Asst Director, Disaster Management Ranjith Alahakoon said roads in several areas had been obstructed by fallen trees while the power supply and transport were interrupted. High-tension power transmission lines n Passara, Lunugala Rideemaliyedda, Welimada, Haldumulla, and Uva Paranagama areas had been damaged.   
Meanwhile, violent chill and dark foggy skies were experienced in several areas in the upcountry yesterday. Foreign tourists who visited Ella area had to light fires to warm up. The people in Nuwara Eliya, Hatton and Talawakelle areas were the worst affected. They said they had not experienced similar cold weather before.    Unprecedented weather conditions had been experienced in the North and the South as well.