Farmers in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak have been shocked by the devastation to their durian fruit caused by a whirlwind.
Y Dot Hwing in Ea Tar Commune, Cu M'gar District, was shocked after seeing his durian garden damaged mainly by the whirlwind on July 6.
"Due to the strong wind, we've lost nearly five tonnes of the young fruit," he said. Some 50 trees were uprooted, and over 10 others lost their branches and fruits. Estimated losses reach over VND300 million.
The nearby garden of Bui Van Son also saw nearly 60 durian trees uprooted.
"I've tried to replant the trees, but I'm not sure if they can survive," Son said in tears. "I've collected over 3.5 tonnes of fallen fruits. The losses are too big for us."
The Ea Tar Commune People's Committee chairman, Tran Xuan Quyen, said that the whirlwind had affected over 200 local farmers, who lost over 100 tonnes of durian fruits.
"Most of the fruits are young and can't be used," the official said. The fruits have high value when they ripen, but now they are just waste."
