Russia: Authorities evacuating parts of Orsk, including Old City area, after local dam breaks April 5 /update 1

Authorities were evacuating parts of the city of Orsk as of late April 5 after a local dam broke. Initial reports indicate that some 4,000 private residential structures may be within the flood zone; up to 10,000 people may live in those residences within the flood zone and be subject to evacuation orders. The Old City (Stary Gorod) area is particularly impacted by evacuations. Officials have issued a state of emergency in the city, and crews have deployed to reinforce the dam. Authorities in Orenburg Oblast previously declared a regionwide state of emergency on April 4 due to flooding.

Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business are likely in Orsk over the coming hours. Authorities may evacuate additional areas or close roads on short notice. Power outages cannot be ruled out.