Vietnam Records 99 Deaths due to Natural Disasters, Fires in Jan-Jul: GSO

Vietnam is estimated to have recorded 99 deaths due to natural disasters and fires and explosions in the first seven months of this year, according to the latest data from the General Statistics Office (GSO). Natural disasters are likely to have killed 34 people, injured 47 others, ruined 3,700 hectares of rice and other plants, and damaged 3,156 houses in January-July. The total economic loss was estimated at VND239 billion ($10.2 million). However, GSO’s June report said that natural disasters ruined 17,700 hectares of rice and other plants, and damaged 20,349 houses in the first half of this year. The total economic loss was estimated at VND464 billion. Meanwhile, fires and explosions have claimed the lives of 65 people, injured 113 others, and caused a total property loss of VND781 billion between January and July. (GSO, GSO)