A deadly storm hit Sochi when a tree fell during intense weather, according to TASS citing the Southern regional search and rescue team of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations. Authorities confirmed the fatality occurred during the night of Sunday, December 24.
Officials stated, “One person died when the tree fell,” underscoring the severity of the storm activity. In the morning of December 24, the Ulyanovsk and neighboring zones reported widespread damage across Sochi due to high winds and heavy precipitation. A tally from the day’s assessments showed 53 trees toppled in Sochi. Flooding affected multiple nearby areas with 40 separate reports logged by local services. The force of the storm also ripped roofs from eight buildings, leaving many residents exposed to the elements.
Power disruptions were a major consequence of the storm, with approximately 12,000 residents across four districts left without electricity due to damaged lines and related infrastructure failures. In addition, rainfall triggered a landslide in the center of the city, creating obstruction and requiring rapid mobilization of response teams. Water supply infrastructure took damage as well, with the central water facility identified as compromised and scheduled for testing across several streets in the city’s Central District.
To mitigate the impact of the adverse weather, the Ministry of Emergency Situations coordinated with local authorities, deploying 119 personnel and 40 units of equipment to affected sites. Emergency crews conducted rescue operations, cleared debris, assisted residents with temporary sheltering needs, and evaluated ongoing risks in the hardest-hit areas. Forecasts continued to warn of further unsettled conditions, with a storm warning remaining in effect for the following day as crews worked to restore services and secure hazardous zones.
In a separate note, earlier reporting from regional officials indicated heavy tree falls in Ryazan, with more than 100 trees brought down by wet snow, highlighting that several regions were contending with the same intense weather patterns. Local responders urged residents to stay indoors during peak winds and to heed official advisories on transportation safety, road closures, and potential flooding. Mutual aid arrangements among nearby regions helped accelerate relief efforts as crews prioritized critical infrastructure and public safety needs.
Officials emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring as storm systems move through the area. Residents were reminded to prepare for possible power interruptions, ensure they have essential supplies, and follow updates from the Ministry of Emergency Situations and regional authorities. The situation remained fluid, with continuous assessments of structural stability, water supply continuity, and emergency housing options for those displaced by the weather. The response teams continued to work around the clock, coordinating with utility providers to restore electricity, repair damaged roofs, and reestablish normal services as rapidly as possible.