Torrential rains, landslides hit the north, killing 12 hinh anh 1Landslides in National Highway 4D (Photo: VNA)
 
Hanoi (VNA)Torrential rains and landslides in recent days in northern mountainous provinces of Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Thai Nguyen and Hoa Binh have claimed 12 lives and left one missing.

Initial damage caused by the calamities is estimated at 20.9 billion VND (919,391 USD), according to the National Steering Committee on Natural Disaster Prevention and Control.

The committee also said that 86 houses were damaged and 40 households were evacuated, while 489 hectares of rice fields and 37 hectares of other crops were destroyed, and three bridges and six sewers were ruined.

The Steering Committees on Natural Disaster Prevention and Control, Search and Rescue in localities are mobilising resources to seek the missing and support families of the deceased as well as affected people.

The localities are also fixing landslide areas to ensure smooth transportation.

It is forecast that from July 11-12, torrential rains continue to hit the northern region. Rainfall in mountainous areas is predicted to reach 50-150mm and even 200mm in some places. Natural disaster risk is at level one.

The committees continue keeping a close watch on developments of the weather to timely roll out responding measures, ensuring safety to human and property.-VNA
VNA