Kazakhstan: Hundreds of settlements remain at risk amid ongoing flood threats

Hundreds of settlements in Kazakhstan continue to face the risk of flooding, the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) said on March 27, NUR.KZ reports. 

According to the ministry, 272 communities remain at risk, while 736 have seen the threat reduced, and 234 are fully protected.

The MES noted that the southern regions have largely passed the peak of the flood season, but West Kazakhstan and Aktobe regions are currently experiencing the highest pressure. Other regions under monitoring include Akmola, North Kazakhstan, Karaganda, East Kazakhstan, Kostanay, and Abai.

Since the beginning of March, six private homes in the Abai region were flooded due to sudden warming and rainfall, although all damages have since been addressed. Across the country, 22 road overflows and one washout have been recorded, with five overflows still under monitoring.

Authorities began preparing for the flood season well in advance. According to the MES, 92% of planned flood-prevention measures have been completed. The ministry has maintained a round-the-clock operational flood headquarters since 1 March, coordinating real-time monitoring and response.

“In the regions, extensive work has been carried out: dams have been reinforced, riverbeds cleared and deepened, drainage systems and canals repaired, and water-passing structures replaced,” the MES added.