Devastating storm hits Latvia: building collapse in Jelgava kills one, two others injured

Latvia was hit by a powerful storm on Saturday evening that has been described as the most severe since January 2005. Strong winds have been felling trees, blocking roads and damaging buildings across the country.

In Jelgava, a building's structure collapsed, killing one person. Rescuers pulled the victim from the rubble and handed them over to the Emergency Medical Service, but medics could only confirm the person's death.

Injuries reported elsewhere

In Aizkraukle municipality's Aiviekste parish, a person was struck by a falling tree. In Bauska municipality, a firefighter-rescuer was injured while working to clear storm damage and was also handed over to medics.

The information was provided by Viktorija Gribuste, spokesperson for the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD).

Public urged to stay indoors

The VUGD has once again urged residents to remain indoors and avoid going outside unless truly necessary. Gribuste noted that in some areas fallen trees block roads every few dozen metres, making it very difficult for emergency crews to reach people in distress, since roadways often must first be cleared of trees.