LIBYAN OPERATIONS HAMPERED

Southland Times, Issue 24681, 28 February 1942, Page 5

LIBYAN OPERATIONS HAMPERED

SANDSTORMS CONTINUE (8.0.W.) RUGBY, February 26. A communique from British General Headquarters, Middle East, ’ states: Sandstorms have continued to hamper operations on land and in the air. Our fighting patrols and columns were again active, but ground mist limited visibility and contact was only occasionally made with small parties of the enemy. The Associated Press correspondent in the Western Desert reports that one of the worst sand-storms since the start of the desert war has almost brought operations to a standstill. Patrols pass within a few hundred yards of each other, in choking clouds, without knowledge of each other’s presence. Friday was the third day of the kharmseen, which is a hot south wind causing storms which usually prevail for five days. With the approach of the warm weather it is considered that FieldMarshal Rommel may not make a new offensive before the autumn. A Royal Air Force Headquarters communique states: In the Western Desert operations yesterday were on a reduced scale, but, in spite of adverse weather, our fighters continued patrol activities. On Tuesday night targets at Benghazi and Berka were successfully attacked. Tripoli was also raided and bombs were seen to burst on the Spanish quay. Three of our aircraft are missing.