A storm swept over Leningrad region

More than 120 localities were left without electricity in the wake of a strong storm that had swept on Saturday night over Leningrad region in the northwest of Russia. The gusts of wind were up to 24 m/sec.

According to local authorities, the southern part of the region was affected the most - more than 80 localities remain without electric power because power lines in many places were severely damaged.

Social services facilities, including hospitals, convalescent homes, and orphanages were immediately supplied with electric power from the emergency supply sources. The repair works in the majority of small villages must be finished through Saturday.

The force of the storm broke off a block of ice with two fishermen on it and carried it away into the deep waters of the Gulf of Finland. Fortunately, both fishermen had mobile phones and called for help. The rescue workers quickly arrived and brought the men back to shore on a rubber raft.