Latvia hit by powerful storm, over 160,000 lose power

RIGA, Aug. 22 (Xinhua) -- A powerful storm swept across Latvia on Saturday evening, bringing down large numbers of trees and severely damaging the electricity distribution network, leaving more than 160,000 customers without power.

The powerful cyclone entered Latvia from the south, bringing torrential rain and damaging winds. Latvian news agency LETA described it as the most destructive storm to hit the country since January 2005. In some parts of central Latvia, rainfall during the day had already reached around half of the local monthly average.

The Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LEGMC) maintained a red warning for heavy rainfall in central and western Latvia on Saturday, while an orange warning for strong wind gusts covered almost the entire country.

Latvia's rail operator said several train services were delayed on Saturday evening due to the severe weather.

According to electricity distribution system operator Sadales tikls, around 160,000 customers were without power as of 9 p.m. Most of the damage was caused by fallen trees, and emergency crews were working to restore electricity as quickly as possible.

Sadales tikls said the damage to the electricity network was extensive and complex, meaning repairs would take longer than usual. Some customers could remain without power for more than 24 hours.

Latvia's State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) said the number of weather-related emergency calls rose rapidly during the evening, with most involving trees brought down by strong winds and blocking roads.

According to local media reports, strong winds tore the roof off a building in Daugavpils, while a falling tree damaged a residential building. In Jekabpils, several vehicles were crushed by fallen trees.

LEGMC issued red, orange and yellow warnings for heavy rain and strong winds in Riga and across the country on Friday. A number of outdoor events around Latvia were subsequently canceled. On Saturday, local authorities repeatedly warned residents of heavy rain and strong winds through cell broadcast alerts. Enditem