AFTERMATHS OF SNOW CYCLONE BEING ELIMINATED ON SAKHALIN








YUZHNO-SAKHALINSK, March 7, 2001 /From RIA Novosti correspondent Anatoly Ilyukhov/ -- The programme of urgent measures to eliminate the consequences of a powerful snow cyclone which swept over the Sakhalin and the Kuriles (the Russian Far East) will be mapped out today at the intercom conference with the participation of the head of the Emergencies Ministry of the Russian Federation, Sergei Shoigu. This was disclosed to RIA Novosti in the regional administration.


	According to the preliminary estimates, the damage caused to the Region as a result of the devastating cyclone has topped 100 million roubles. Eight people perished during the cyclone.


	However, the total number of lives claimed by the cyclone may turn out to be greater, since in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk alone dozens of cars with people inside were buried under the snow-drifts. 


	A hurricane has damaged many electricity transmitting lines.


	There is no electricity yet in 24 settlements. Twenty-three repair brigades are working to eliminate the aftermaths of malfunctions at the power transmission lines.


	The cyclone which raged four days over the isles has subsided. Today the Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk airport which was closed for three days has received flights from Moscow, Khabarovsk and Vladivostok.


	A day earlier the railway traffic resumed in Sakhalin, five marine ferries which are being loaded in the merchant port of Vanino on the mainland are preparing to leave for the island. The roads are being cleared up round the clock.