Kalmaegi leaves five dead in Vietnam, estimated losses exceed VND7 trillion
VOV.VN - As of November 7, Typhoon Kalmaegi has caused extensive damage across Vietnam’s central region, leaving at least five people dead, three missing, and 17 injured, according to a preliminary report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
Dak Lak province reported three fatalities, while Gia Lai province confirmed two deaths and multiple injuries caused by strong winds and heavy rain. Meanwhile, Quang Ngai province reported three people missing after the typhoon made landfall in the central region.
The typhoon has also inflicted heavy losses on property and infrastructure. Preliminary statistics show nearly 18,000 houses were destroyed, damaged, or had their roofs blown off in Quang Ngai, Gia Lai, and Dak Lak.
21 fishing vessels were sunk by high waves. 54,335 fishing cages and rafts were damaged or washed away. 3,721 hectares of rice and crops were inundated or flattened. 3,944 hectares of industrial crops and fruit trees suffered severe damage.
Notably, 31 incidents occurred on 110 kV power grids, and 449 power poles were broken or toppled. Consequently, more than 1.6 million customers lost electricity.
The initial estimated economic loss is approximately VND7.05 trillion (around US$280 million).
Across many affected areas, trees were uprooted, hotel windows shattered, and widespread power outages occurred.
Heavy rainfall of 200 - 400 mm and in some isolated areas exceeding 600 mm has heightened the risk of landslides and flashfloods, especially in mountainous regions.
These figures are preliminary, and as recovery efforts continue, the actual damage and casualty numbers may rise further in the coming days.
Authorities have urged localities to remain on high alert for post-storm flooding, review high-risk areas, and prioritise restoring electricity, transportation, and emergency assistance for affected communities.