The Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan has reminded the public of the rules of conduct during mudflow threats. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The ministry noted that a mudflow is a natural phenomenon with great destructive force, widespread in mountainous areas.
Signs of mudflow danger include prolonged or intense torrential rains, a sharp and prolonged rise in air temperature in the upper reaches of mudflow-prone rivers, which can lead to the overflow of moraine lakes and the threat of their breach. Also, a sharp drop or rise in the water level in a river and an increase in water turbidity may indicate danger.
When warned of an approaching mudflow, or at the first signs of its manifestation, it is necessary to leave the premises as quickly as possible, warn others of the danger, and go to a safe place.
Before leaving home, the MES recommends extinguishing stoves, turning off gas valves, turning off lights, and disconnecting electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fire.
If the house is in a danger zone, you should prepare in advance a list of documents, property, and medications to take during evacuation. Valuables, warm clothes, a supply of food, water, and medicines should be packed in advance in a special backpack or suitcase.
After a mudflow, one must beware of repeated mudflows, slope sliding, broken and sagging electrical wires, and damaged gas pipelines.
Residents and workers near the beds of mudflow-prone rivers are advised by the MES to listen carefully to messages from competent authorities. In the event of a threat of mudflow discharges and after an alert signal, it is necessary to immediately evacuate along pre-planned routes to shelters, taking documents and valuables.
Routes and assembly points should be clarified at district emergency departments and at the place of residence.
The MES also reminded that during intense torrential rain in the upper reaches of a mudflow-prone basin, one must leave the mudflow-prone channel. Do not stop for rest near mudflow-prone channels, on lake dams, or under them.
Do not approach a moving mudflow closer than 50-70 meters. Also, do not stop near steep cliffs and steep slopes: due to vibrations during the passage of a mudflow, a collapse or rockfall may occur.
If signs of a mudflow are detected, immediately move as far away from the channel as possible up the mountain slopes. After the mudflow wave has passed, do not descend into the mudflow channel.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov held a meeting on the current hydrological situation. According to the government, water levels are within normal limits, but in regions with increased risks, MES forces have been strengthened and round-the-clock monitoring has been organized.