Vietnam/Laos

Death toll rises as waters subside

Article published on the 2008-08-15 Latest update 2008-08-15 12:20 TU

(Photo: Reuters)

In Vietnam the death toll from flooding provoked by the Kammuri storm has risen to at least 127. A further 34 people remain missing and the death toll could rise to over 160.

The latest figures were given by an official from the National Flood and Storm Control Committee. He said rescue efforts were being focussed on the worst-hit areas in the north of the country.

The extent of the damage has also increased with almost 800 houses destroyed and over 15,000 hectares of crops wiped out. Around 18,000 houses have been damaged by water.

Officials said the worst-hit areas were two of Vietnam's northern provinces, Yen Bai and Lao Cai. The water level of rivers in the north of the country has now dropped, according to the authorities.

Meanwhile, the Laotian government said the water level of the river Mekong has dropped in Laos. It said the risk to the capital Vientiane is now reduced. Floods in the country have killed four people and damaged tens of thousands of rice fields.