Devastating Flooding in Russia’s Far East

The aftermath of Typhoon Khanun has wreaked havoc in Russia’s Far East, resulting in a state of emergency being declared and mass evacuations being ordered. Heavy downpours have caused severe flooding in several villages, leaving many settlements cut off and numerous homes and roads underwater.

The Primorye region in the easternmost part of Russia and the Asian continent has been particularly affected by the flooding. As of Saturday morning, 543 houses and extensive stretches of roads were submerged, with 32 settlements completely cut off from the outside world. Videos shared by the Primorye government on the Telegram messaging app show large swathes of land and buildings partially underwater, especially in the riverside areas of Spassk-Dalny.

Spassk-Dalny, a city with a population of just over 44,000 people, is bearing the brunt of the flooding. The Spassovka and Kuleshovka rivers, which run through the city, have seen a rapid rise in water levels, leading to the partial submersion of buildings. The local government has warned residents about the quick escalation of the situation and has initiated evacuations in the affected areas.

Ussuriysk, a city located approximately 100 km (60 miles) north of Vladivostok, is also grappling with the disastrous consequences of the flooding. With a population of over 150,000 people, parts of Ussuriysk have been forced to evacuate due to the breach of a dam built to contain floods. The situation remains dire as the city battles to prevent further damage and devastation.

A Desperate State of Emergency

In response to the widespread flooding, a state of emergency has been declared in nine municipalities in the Primorye region. This declaration allows for additional resources and support to be allocated towards rescue and relief efforts. The government authorities are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of the flooding and ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population.

One of the primary causes of the flooding is the excessive rainfall brought by Typhoon Khanun. Some areas in the Primorye region are forecasted to receive twice the amount of their average monthly rainfall during this weekend. This unprecedented rainfall has overwhelmed the region’s drainage systems and led to the catastrophic flooding that is currently unfolding.

The devastating flooding in Russia’s Far East has presented a significant challenge to the affected communities and the regional government. With homes and roads submerged, evacuations underway, and a state of emergency in place, the aftermath of Typhoon Khanun continues to wreak havoc in the region. As rescue and relief efforts intensify, the focus remains on assisting those in need and mitigating further damage caused by this natural disaster.