The governor of the Irkutsk Region, Igor Kobzev, announced via the official telegram channel that starting April 16 a high alert regime will be introduced in the Slyudyansky district due to the ongoing mudflow threat. The decision follows a meeting of the regional emergency commission where strategy and practical steps were discussed to ensure safe passage during the spring flood and the approaching fire season across the region. The governor emphasized that the high alert status is specifically tied to mudflow risks in the Slyudyansky district, signaling heightened monitoring and readiness among local authorities and residents alike. In his update, he noted that eight settlements fall within the possible landslide zone, underscoring the need for preparedness, early warning systems, and evacuation plans if conditions worsen. He also highlighted the necessity of eliminating the danger posed by potential tree fires, which could be triggered by dry spells and wind during the seasonal transition.
Earlier in the week, a mud flow in the Dagomys area of the Krasnodar Territory blocked rail traffic at night. The disruption affected all trains and electric trains, with full restoration of service not achieved until February 14. This incident served as a stark reminder of how rapidly weather-related events can disrupt transportation and require swift, coordinated responses from regional authorities and rail operators. (Telegram channel report)
Meteorologist Shuvalov has cautioned that Russia may face an increase in the frequency of natural disasters, a forecast that places a premium on proactive risk management, continuous monitoring, and community readiness. Local officials in the Irkutsk Region have stated that ongoing observations will inform decisions about resource allocation, emergency sheltering, and public communications as the season progresses. (Source: regional weather services)