Owing to a cold current from the north, temperatures dropped toabout -3 degrees Celsius around Shaoguan City and Qingyuan City inthe north of the province.

Sleet and snow first hit Ruyuan County in Shaoguan City on Dec.25. Ten centimeters of snow lay on the hilltops by Dec. 26, when sleet, snow and hail fell in most parts of Shaoguan City, according to the local weather bureau.

Local people said they had not seen such heavy snow for many years.

Snow and ice blocked some of the roads, and icicles could be seen hanging from branches in many places.

Cases were reported of chickens dying from the cold and poultryfarmers have resorted to warming up their sheds with wood fires.

Local governments have handed out relief supplies as part of measures taken to help residents people fight against the unexpectedly wintry weather.

(People's Daily December 30, 2002)