A severe downpour with thunderstorms, hail and gusty winds has caused flooding on the streets of Astana. Residents are posting numerous videos of the aftermath of the bad weather on social media, showing flooded roads, cars, public transport and urban infrastructure.
WHAT HAPPENED
According to the Akimat of Astana, the city's utilities are working on an enhanced schedule due to heavy rainfall, including cloudbursts. The statement notes that the storm drainage system and treatment facilities are coping with the large volume of water, although minor flooding is temporarily being observed in certain areas.
According to the Akimat, when there is a large volume of precipitation at once, the storm drainage system typically takes in the water within 40 minutes to 1 hour.
It was also reported that utility services are continuously cleaning collectors and storm drains, steaming pipes, and carrying out work on the construction of storm drainage systems and treatment facilities.
WHAT CONSEQUENCES RESIDENTS HAVE RECORDED
Footage published by eyewitnesses shows that after the downpour, roads, courtyards, parking lots, balconies, and some private houses were flooded. On some streets, the water level rose so high that cars were partially submerged.
Social media also featured videos showing some drivers climbing onto the roofs of their cars and waiting for help. Additionally, water entered the interiors of some buses.
Residents also reported flooding of pedestrian crossings and roads near the 'Abu Dhabi Plaza' shopping centre.
WHY A LEAK APPEARED AT THE LRT STATION
Witnesses published video recordings showing water flowing from the ceiling of the Tarlan Astana (LRT) 'Syganak' station.
According to data from City Transportation Systems (CTS), the leak is related to the commissioning of engineering systems. As the company explained, specialists were carrying out checks and adjustments on fire safety system equipment.
CTS reported that during such work, service hatches intended for maintaining the fire suppression systems are opened. In some cases, moisture can enter through them. The company stated that it is taking the necessary measures to resolve the situation and ensure proper sealing, and the station continues to operate as normal.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE WEATHER
According to the Republican State Enterprise 'Kazhydromet', on 23 July in Astana there will be variable cloudiness, with occasional rain and thunderstorms. During the day, the air temperature will be +23…+25 degrees, with a north-easterly wind of 9–14 m/s.
Meteorologists have also issued a storm warning. According to the forecast for 24 July, rain and thunderstorms are expected again in the capital, with possible hail during the day.
