VietNamNet Bridge - Many photos taken before and during the thunderstorm on the late afternoon of June 13 in Hanoi look like images in fiction films such as "Apocalypse" or "The Lord of the Rings".

Photos: Historic storm batters Hanoi, killing two

Authorities in Hanoi sent out 2,000 workers and volunteers on June 14 to deal with the aftermath of the whirlwind that ravaged the capital city on previous day’s afternoon, killing two people and injuring at least five.

By June 14 afternoon, most streets were cleared of traffic jams and flooding, while street lights were also back on.

The city's traffic police recalled all personnel to direct traffic, and a force of 100 firefighters was also ordered to provide support to local residents.

More than 1,300 soldiers were also dispatched to assist with relief efforts.

After the 30 minute-whirlwind dissipated, over 1,000 trees had been uprooted, 140 roofs had been swept away, 170 power stations were damaged and numerous buildings and vehicles destroyed.

A tree fell on a motorbike and two taxis at the intersection of Nguyen Du and Quang Trung, killing the motorbike driver. Another fatality occurred on Minh Khai in Hai Ba Trung district, when a tree fell on a 21-year-old girl who was driving an electric bike.

A large truck also overturned on the Vinh Tuy birdge and hit the safety rail due to strong winds, causing traffic congestion.

Objects such as advertising boards and metal panels injured bystanders after being ripped off buildings by the strong winds, and many residents had to abandon their vehicles to find shelter during the whirlwind.

Deputy General of the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting Le Thanh Hai said the wind force was estimated at 89-102kmh, the strongest seen in the capital city in the last 30 years, VnExpress reported.

Hai said it would have been impossible to warn the capital's residents as the whirlwind formed just an hour before it hit the city with full force. He noted that such whirlwind was extremely rare and unlikely to happen again.

The Hanoi Electricy Company (EVN Hanoi) said they were forced to cut power for areas in Hoan Kiem, Dong Da, Thanh Xuan, Ba Dinh, Hoang Mai, Long Bien and Tay Ho due to safety concerns.

Flooding was also reported on a number of the capital's streets after the heavy downpour during the whirlwind.

The capital also saw brief but heavy rain last night. Strong winds and rain were expected to continue over the next few days, but without the intensity seen on June 13.