Atyrau Prepares for Potential Flooding

Atyrau region authorities are taking precautions against possible flooding, with seasonal hydroposts set to be installed in 51 at-risk settlements, reports Orda.kz reports.

According to Salauat Tolenov, head of Kazhydromet's regional branch, a large volume of water is expected from Russia.

The region has 12 hydroelectric stations that monitor water levels, temperatures, and ice conditions twice a day. Standard checks are also carried out. So far, all water bodies are stable and are in the ice formation phase. However, since December 28 last year, water discharge from the Iriklinsky reservoir has increased to 60 cubic meters per second, up from 25 cubic meters in February last year,Tolenov reported.

The Atyrau region’s Akim, Serik Shapkenov, stressed the need to monitor both critical water levels and incoming volumes. He highlighted last year’s floods, where rising water spilled into canals, increasing the risk. To improve monitoring, he proposed opening hydroposts near the Aqtobe and West Kazakhstan borders and enhancing real-time data exchange with Russian hydrologists.

Kazhydromet should enhance its operational data sharing with border specialists regarding the hydrological situation. History shows that floods can occur for two years in a row, so it's crucial to prioritize preparation and timely information, added Serik Shapkenov.

Meanwhile, Nurlan Zhanabayev, the Head of the Regional Department of Emergency Situations, announced that emergency services are reinforcing protective structures.

Last year, 590 km of dams were built, 20 km of canals were dug, and eight culverts were installed on key roads. Flood control efforts will continue until March to mitigate risks.

Original Author: Daniel Arturov