Russia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Primorsky as of early Aug. 14

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across Primorsky as of early Aug. 14, following heavy rainfall over the recent days. The cities of Ussuriysk and Spassk-Dalny and the Oktyabrsky municipal district are the worst affected. Authorities have confirmed three fatalities Aug. 11 due to floodwaters. As of early Aug. 14, more than 2,500 people remain evacuated, and around 500 people are staying in the 12 emergency shelters established by authorities. Flooding has impacted over 4,600 homes and 28 road sections, cutting off 28 communities. Around 910 apartment buildings and 1,730 houses in Nadezhdinsky, Oktyabrsky, and Ussuriysk districts remain without power; restoration efforts are ongoing.

Floodwaters have receded in Mikhailovsky District; clean-up and recovery efforts are underway. Floodwaters have also begun to recede in Nadezhdinsky, Oktyabrsky, Ussuriysk, and Spassky districts and other parts of the Primorye region, except for the Malinovka River near the village of Rakitnoye, Aug. 14.

The Russian Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring has issued orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) heavy rain and flood warnings across Primorsky through at least Aug. 16. Further rainfall will likely hamper recovery efforts and might exacerbate the current situation.

Hazardous Conditions
Urban flooding is also possible in other areas with easily overwhelmed or lack stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Transport
The flooding will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the city. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along roadways. 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 affected regions.

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 debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair, or reconstruction, efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads.

Resources

Russian Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring