Over 100,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in Russia and neighbouring Kazakhstan due to fast-melting snow and ice causing rivers to swell in the southern Urals and northern Kazakhstan. Both countries have declared a state of emergency as they battle the rising rivers, with Kazakhstan evacuating 96,272 people and Russia evacuating more than 7,000, mostly from the Orenburg region. The floods in Orenburg began with the collapse of a dam, leading to the river’s water level in the city of Orenburg rising above 10 meters. Photos shared by Russian news outlets showed roads covered in water, submerged fields, and partially submerged houses, with more than 300 homes flooded overnight.
Despite the severity of the situation, President Vladimir Putin has not yet announced plans to visit the flood-hit region, although he is frequently shown on Russian state television meeting officials and traveling across the country. The water was reportedly approaching high-rise buildings in Orenburg, and more than 300 homes were flooded overnight, with residents in the city of Orsk staging a rare protest calling for compensation after their homes were damaged. Videos on social media showed angry Russians refusing to leave the areas near their homes due to concerns about looting, with some pointing to a criminal probe investigating suspected construction violations that may have caused the dam to break. Local authorities had previously stated that the dam could withstand water levels up to 5.5 meters, but levels in Orsk reached 9.7 meters on Sunday.
The Ural River, which flows through Russia and Kazakhstan from the southern section of the Ural Mountains into the north end of the Caspian Sea, has been significantly impacted by the flooding. This has led to a critical situation in both countries, prompting mass evacuations and emergency declarations. The severity of the flooding has caused significant damage to homes, roads, and fields, with a large number of people forced to leave their homes and seek refuge in evacuation centers. The situation is further compounded by concerns of looting and protests by affected residents demanding compensation for their losses.
Protests in Orsk and an overall tense situation in the region have highlighted the need for urgent action and support from the government. Calls for assistance, including from President Putin, have been made as residents seek help in dealing with the aftermath of the flooding. The criminal probe into the dam collapse and investigations into potential construction violations aim to address the root causes of the disaster and ensure accountability for those responsible. The impact of the flooding on communities in the affected areas is significant, with a long road to recovery ahead as authorities work to provide assistance and support to those affected by the natural disaster.
With ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the flooding in Russia and Kazakhstan, it is clear that the situation remains critical and requires immediate attention and assistance. The mass evacuations, damage to infrastructure, and impact on communities underscore the urgency of the response needed to address the needs of those affected. The long-term recovery and rebuilding process will be essential in helping residents and communities affected by the flooding to return to normalcy and overcome the challenges they are facing. As the situation continues to evolve, coordinated efforts by governments, relief organizations, and the international community will be crucial in providing support and resources to those affected by the devastating consequences of the flood.
