Kazakhstan: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least April 4

Event

Adverse weather conditions are forecast across Kazakhstan through at least April 4. The National Hydrometeorological Service of Kazakhstan has issued several weather warnings officials have issued further warnings regarding flooding. As of March 31, the following warnings are in effect across the country:

• Snowstorm, fog, ice, and strong winds warnings: Akmola, Aktobe, Jambyl, Kostanay, North Kazakhstan, Pavlodar, and West Kazakhstan regions.

• Duststorm and strong winds warning: Mangystau Region.

• Avalanche warning: Almaty Region.

• Rising river level warning due to heavy precipitation and snowmelt: Akmola, Aktobe, Almaty, Karaganda, Kostanay, North Kazakhstan, Pavlodar, and West Kazakhstan regions.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The Minister of Emergency Situations has announced that over 150 communities are at risk of flooding in the coming days due to significant snowmelt caused by warming temperatures and precipitation. The affected areas include parts of Akmola, Aktobe, East Kazakhstan, West Kazakhstan, Karaganda, Kostanay, Pavlodar, and North Kazakhstan regions. Flooding is also possible in parts of Almaty, Jambyl, and Turkistan regions due to heavy rain and snowfall, causing mountain rivers to rise. There will also be a threat of avalanches in these areas.

Hazardous Conditions
Flash and areal flooding are possible across much of Kazakhstan in the coming days. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs and in mountain foothills may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall or significant snowmelt.

Snowfall is possible in areas of higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall and rising temperatures. Power outages could occur throughout affected areas.

Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in affected areas. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides and mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

National Hydrometeorological Service of Kazakhstan (Kazakh)