25 Apr 2022 | 09:58 AM UTC
Kazakhstan: Adverse weather forecast across southeastern regions through at least April 26
Severe weather forecast across parts of southeastern Kazakhstan through April 26. Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Almaty.
Event
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of southeastern Kazakhstan through at least April 26. The National Hydrometeorological Service of Kazakhstan has issued the following warnings April 25-26:
Orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) heavy rain warnings: Almaty, Jambyl, and Karaganda regions.
Orange strong winds warning: Almaty, Jambyl, and Karaganda regions.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Jambyl, Karaganda, and Turkistan regions.
Yellow other hazard warnings: for hail and thunderstorms in Almaty and Turkistan regions.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Turkistan Region.
Yellow fog warnings: Karaganda Region.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Flooding has been reported in the city of Almaty following heavy rainfall early April 25. Several roads have been inundated with floodwater, causing travel disruptions in the city. Snowfall has been reported in parts of the Karaganda Region April 25.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including but not limited to Almaty (ALA) and Shymkent (CIT) airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, 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.
