27 May 2022 | 02:42 AM UTC
Kazakhstan: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least May 29
Severe weather forecast across most of Kazakhstan through at least May 29. Possible disruptions to transport, business, and utilities.
Event
Adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, thunderstorms, and hailstorms are forecast across most of Kazakhstan through at least May 29. Thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rainfall especially in mountainous areas, and possible hail are forecast across most of the country during this period. There is also a threat of dust storms and a high risk of forest fires in areas that receive little precipitation due to strong winds.
As of May 27, the National Hydrometeorological Service of Kazakhstan has issued the following warnings May 27-28:
Red high fire hazard warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): East Kazakhstan and Kyzylorda regions May 27.
Orange high fire hazard warnings: Pavlodar Region May 27.
Orange high-temperature warnings: Karaganda Region May 27.
Orange strong wind warnings: Petropavl Region May 27 and Turkistan Region May 27-28.
Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Jambyl Region May 27-28 as well as Almaty and Pavlodar regions May 28.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Almaty Region May 27.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Aktobe, Atyrau, Kostanay, Mangystau, and West Kazakhstan regions May 27 as well as Akmola, Aktobe, Atyrau, Kostanay, Kyzylorda, North Kazakhstan, and West Kazakhstan regions May 28.
Yellow wind warnings: Akmola Region May 27 as well as East Kazakhstan and Karaganda regions May 28.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days. The adverse weather is likely to persist through at least May 29.
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 International (ALA) and Nursultan Nazarbayev International (NQZ) 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. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
