Georgia’s Batumi records unprecedented September rainfall

The amount of rainfall recorded at the Batumi meteorological station over a 24-hour period was unprecedented for September and, according to historical data, reached a level expected only once every 100 years, Georgia’s National Environmental Agency reports.

Heavy rainfall was observed along the Adjara coast and surrounding areas through the 24 hours leading up to the morning of September 20, causing flooding on streets in parts of Batumi and temporarily placing the city’s infrastructure under strain.

“The total amount of precipitation recorded on September 19–20 was 275 mm, exceeding 90 percent of the monthly climatic norm. At the same time, 20 percent of this amount — 52.5 mm — fell within one hour, from 21:00 to 22:00 on September 19. According to historical data, the amount of precipitation recorded at the Batumi meteorological station over 24 hours was 273 mm. This is an unprecedented figure for September and corresponds to precipitation with a 100-year return period,” the agency said.

According to the agency’s meteorological stations, rainfall recorded on September 19–20 totaled 134.5 mm at the Kobuleti station, 58.5 mm in Kokhi, Kobuleti, 93 mm in Mtirala National Park and 50.8 mm at the station in Khelvachauri. The National Environment Agency continues to monitor hydrometeorological conditions around the clock.

By Jeyhun Aghazada