Dry wells and shrinking water holes as drought grips Sri Lanka
A prolonged drought in central Sri Lanka has left wells dry and damaged crops. Wildlife in Yala National Park is also affected, with authorities supplying water by tanker.
A prolonged drought in central Sri Lanka is causing serious hardship for residents, farmers and animals. Shrinking water holes, dry wells and parched fields show how severe the situation has become.
Water shortages in villages
In the Medirigiriya area, villagers walk with plastic cans and clay pots to collect water. In communities where wells have run dry, tankers deliver supplies.
Farmers say the lack of rain has damaged their crops and made it harder to earn a living.
Wildlife in Yala National Park
The dry conditions are also affecting wildlife in Yala National Park. Deer, monkeys and buffaloes gather around what is left of the watering holes. Authorities use tankers to keep these sources supplied.
Possible causes
Little rain has fallen during the current monsoon season, and high temperatures have added to the strain. Climate experts say El Niño and warmer temperatures, linked partly to climate change, may be contributing to the conditions.
