Water levels in rivers across Russia’s Ural and southwestern Siberian regions have risen rapidly, causing severe flooding that has affected hundreds of homes and sparked urgent evacuations. Officials reported on Tuesday that the escalating situation has cut off power and poses significant risks to residents.
In the Kurgan region, which borders Kazakhstan and is situated along the Tobol River, more than 300 houses and nearly 700 residential plots have been submerged. Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations announced that the flooding has disrupted daily life, prompting emergency services to act swiftly in relocating affected families to safer areas.
“The situation is critical. We are working around the clock to ensure the safety of our residents,” a representative from the Ministry stated. Rescue teams are utilizing boats and helicopters to reach isolated communities, emphasizing the urgency of the evacuations.
The sudden rise in water levels is attributed to heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt in the region. Authorities are monitoring river conditions closely, with forecasts indicating that water levels may continue to rise in the coming days.
The flooding has also impacted infrastructure, with several roads and bridges rendered impassable. Power outages have been reported in multiple districts, complicating rescue and relief efforts. Emergency shelters have been established to provide temporary accommodation and essential services to those displaced.
Neighboring regions are on alert as well, preparing for potential overflow from connected river systems. The government has called for cooperation between federal and regional agencies to address the disaster efficiently.
Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and to adhere to evacuation orders promptly. The Ministry of Emergency Situations has set up hotlines to assist with inquiries and coordination of relief efforts.
This severe flooding underscores the challenges faced by communities in the Ural and Siberian regions, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
