In Kazakhstan, the battle against floods continues as rescuers evacuate local residents from inundated areas. The rising waters are affecting not only villages and cities but also highways, with the list of closed roads due to flooding being updated daily.
Over the past days, more than 2000 people have been evacuated from flooded areas in the Turkestan, Aktobe, Kostanay, and West Kazakhstan regions. Rescuers are working tirelessly, rescuing elderly and children, carrying some to safety in their arms.
Emergency services, along with urban and rural communal enterprises, as well as police and military forces, have joined forces to combat the floods. As of today, over 1.7 million cubic meters of water have been pumped out, with more than 82 thousand sandbags and 20,183 tons of inert materials used for protection measures.
The situation has also impacted the national highways, with many roads currently impassable due to high water levels. Major overflow points have been reported on 12 highways in 7 regions, resulting in travel restrictions spanning over 2000 kilometers.
Despite the challenges, authorities assure that the situation is under control, with continuous efforts to safeguard the highways from floodwaters. Officials recommend motorists to plan their trips in advance, stay updated on official information, and avoid routes with reported water overflows.
Experts note that the 2024 floods are more extensive compared to the previous year, attributing this to the frozen ground hindering water absorption. While the situation is expected to normalize soon, a significant water increase in mountainous areas is anticipated in April.
Overall, the coordinated efforts of all involved parties, including rescue teams, military personnel, volunteers, and local authorities, have been commendable. Evacuation centers have been set up to provide shelter, food, clothing, and medical assistance to those affected by the floods.
The round-the-clock operations of national and regional emergency headquarters, alongside the established hotlines, demonstrate the government's proactive approach in preparing for and responding to the crisis. The unity and dedication displayed in the face of adversity highlight the resilience and strength of the Kazakhstani community.
