Recent Flooding in Orsk, Russia
Over 4,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes in Orsk, Russia, after major floods hit the city on April 6. The rising water in the Ural River flooded riverside settlements and caused a dam to burst, leading to a critical situation in the region.
Emergency Response
Emergency Situations Minister Alexander Kurenkov stated that the flood situation in Orsk has turned critical after the dam burst. Evacuated individuals have been relocated to temporary housing centers for safety.
Criminal Investigation
Authorities have opened a criminal case related to negligence and violation of construction safety rules following the dam burst. The dam, constructed in 2014, failed due to torrential rains, prompting concerns about water levels in the Ural River.
Government Action
A federal emergency has been declared in the region, with additional funding and reinforcements being dispatched to address the urgent situation. Melting ice has exacerbated the flooding, leading to a dangerous rise in water levels.
Future Concerns
The dam was designed to control a 5.5-meter water level in the Ural River, which has now reached nine meters. The mayor of Orenburg warned half a million residents of a potential evacuation if the situation worsens. Weather authorities predict that water levels will peak on Wednesday.
