The acting governor of the Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo, reported a rapid rise in evacuees following the breach at the Kakhovskaya hydroelectric power station. According to his notes published on the Telegram channel, authorities confirmed that as of the latest tally, about 5,000 residents have been evacuated from affected areas in the Kherson region. The figure reflects ongoing efforts to safeguard civilians amid rising flood threats and infrastructure damage tied to the dam’s failure.
Saldo detailed the demographic breakdown of those displaced, noting that among the evacuees there are 178 children and 62 individuals with limited mobility who require additional assistance and accommodations. He emphasized the critical need for rapid, organized shelter and support services for families and vulnerable residents as the situation remains fluid.
He added that roughly a thousand people have been placed in temporary shelters where they can receive essential resources and security while authorities coordinate longer-term housing solutions and relief measures. The presence of these temporary shelters underscores the urgent priorities of ensuring safety, nutrition, medical attention, and clear communication for evacuees during the unfolding emergency.
State officials reported that 62 people from the affected zones have been hospitalized to receive timely medical care for injuries and potential complications arising from the flooding and infrastructure damage. The hospitalization figures highlight the ongoing health risks associated with the dam breach and the region-wide strain on healthcare facilities as response teams work to stabilize conditions on the ground.
Andrey Alekseenko, a former regional government leader, stated that after the dam’s breach, the most severe flooding conditions persist in certain communities, specifically Aleshki and Gola Pristan. His assessment reflects the localized nature of the flood threat and the importance of targeted relief efforts to those towns facing the most acute impacts on homes, livelihoods, and access to essential services.
In discussions at the highest level, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the situation, focusing on the stability of the region amid the dam failure. The president issued instructions to authorities and urged nearby communities to assess their needs carefully. The goal is to identify immediate priorities for residents while coordinating the broader stabilization and recovery plan across Kherson and adjacent areas, ensuring that relief operations remain effective and transparent for the local population and neighboring regions involved in the response effort.