Yuncheng -- Relief work is under way for farmers suffering heavy losses after strong gale winds on May 22, so that people can get back to daily life as soon as possible, assured Yuncheng Mayor Gao Weidong to the media at a press conference Thursday.

Yuncheng Mayor Gao Weidong speaks to online media reporters at a press conference Thursday, May 24, 2007. [chinadaily.com.cn]

Gao said 2007 is a disaster year for the city, with its agricultural production dropping at least 30 to 40 percent compared to last year's total due to various natural disasters, including frost, drought, and wind.

In a latest report, nearly 40,000 mu of wheat yet to be harvested was completely devastated by gales on May 22. It was another in a series of natural disasters following last year's frost and drought, the worst of its kind in 43 years.

According to Gao, the municipal government has allocated 10 million yuan as temporary relief to help the farmers, and will report the disaster to the provincial and central governments for additional financial aid. "The main difficulties for the farmers are the shortage of grain and money, but I assure you the problem will be properly settled," Gao said.

Job opportunities will be provided to the affected farmers, and an emergency plan will be installed, he said.

Yuncheng is located in the southwest of North China's Shanxi Province, with a population of 5 million and an area of 14,000 square kilometers.