Monday, April 19, 2010

Whirlwind in Lao Cai causes one dead and extensive damage

On April 15, 2010, Bac Ha district in Lao Cai province was affected by a whirlwind and heavy rain. As a result, one person died, dozens of roofs were blown away, and extensive damage was brought to farmlands.

Prune fields, at this time of the year in their growth period, were seriously damaged, causing a decreased production for this year.

According to Nguyen Thi Hoa, Head of Bac Ha People’s committee, the whirlwind passed through Bac Ha, Ta Chai, Na Hoi, Ban Pho, and Thai Giang Pho. Roofs were blown away and 30 houses, and 2 schools, Thai Giang Pho and Ta Chai, were damaged. The whirlwind also caused one dead; Thao Seo Vinh, 25 years old, resident in Khao Sao, Ban Pho, Bac Ha, died when his house collapsed.

Bac Ha district officials continue to collect damage statistics, mobilize search and rescue, provide immediate assistance and support to the affected households to recover their livelihoods.