Kyrgyzstan: Ongoing evacuations in Osh region following heavy rains and landslides, as of July 15 /update 1

Emergency service crews are continuing to respond to flooding and landslides in the region of Osh as of July 15. Authorities continue to maintain a state of emergency in the Osh and Kara-Suu districts. Heavy rain caused the Ak-Buura River to overflow on July 14, flooding the center of Osh and the nearby towns of Toleikon, Borubai-Ata, and Ozgur. Five people reportedly died in the flooding. At least 420 residents have been evacuated, and over 7,500 people are reportedly without electricity in the affected area. Ground travel had been halted along the Osh-Gulcho-Erkeshtam road; road travel disruptions are likely ongoing.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 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.

Additional heavy rainfall will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.

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