Heilongjiang counts the cost of snowstorm (2)

The meteorological department in Heilongjiang reported snowfalls averaging 50 cm deep in Hegang on Tuesday morning, equaling record figures recorded in the past five decades.

The snow, which began falling on Sunday, disrupted power and water supplies, caused traffic chaos and severe damage to hundreds of greenhouses.

Hegang city's civil affairs bureau said that by Monday the snowstorms had affected 6,450 people, destroyed 145 greenhouses and 173 houses, causing estimated economic losses of 12.3 million yuan.

Power and water supplies were restored in most parts of the province on Monday evening.

Although the snow is expected to stop on Wednesday, residents are preparing for more by buying candles and flashlights.

Candles have sold out in stores near Wen Caizhen's house in Hegang.

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