Strong winds tear off roofs, cladding from houses in Atyrau, Kazakhstan

Strong, gusty winds that have been battering the city since overnight have caused damage to several residential neighbourhoods, Caliber.Az reports, citing Kazakh media.

According to meteorological services, wind gusts are exceeding 25 metres per second. Blizzard conditions and ice formation have been recorded, creating hazardous conditions for movement.

In the Bolashak microdistrict, the storm tore off building cladding, with facade elements scattering across the streets. In the Almagul area, strong winds ripped the roof off one house, which fell onto a parked vehicle. Information on possible injuries is being уточняется.

Witnesses reported that lawns and other lightweight structures were blown through the streets. Adverse weather conditions persist, and emergency services continue to assess the damage.

Residents have been urged to exercise caution and avoid parking vehicles near buildings and poorly secured structures.

By Khagan Isayev