Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Yerlan Nysanbayev at the Government session presented updated weather forecast data for the spring period.

He noted that as of 11 March, the area of the country covered with snow is 71%, which is 15% less than last week. Snow melting has started in the south of the country in Kyzylorda, Turkestan and Zhambyl regions, in the west in West Kazakhstan, Atyrau and Mangystau regions.

"In the case of rising temperatures and heavy precipitation in the form of rain in March, high talo-rain floods are possible along mountain rivers. In the central, northern and eastern part of the country snow accumulation continues, in March two or more monthly norm of precipitation is expected. For example, in Astana in the first decade has already fallen in the monthly norm of precipitation," Yerlan Nyssanbayev emphasised.

The Minister also noted that March and April are expected to be warmer than usual and will be accompanied by heavy precipitation in most of the country, which increases the likelihood of a friendly spring and flood risks. Regions with high flood risk include: Aktobe, Kostanay, Karaganda, Akmola, Kostanay region, North Kazakhstan region, North Kazakhstan region, East Kazakhstan region and Ulytau and Abay regions. Regions with medium risks: Almaty, Zhetisu, Zhambyl, West Kazakhstan and Atyrau regions. Regions with low risks: Pavlodar, Mangystau, Turkestan and Kyzylorda regions.

"This year for the first time Kazhydromet issued detailed information on each region separately, they indicate maximum water levels and flow rates, the volume of runoff on hydrological posts and the expected date of the onset with the indication of specific settlements that are in the risk zone. Also since last week Kazhydromet started issuing weekly hydrological forecasts. In case of sudden changes in hydrometeorological conditions ‘Kazhydromet’ will notify storm warnings 2-3 days in advance," Yerlan Nysanbayev concluded.

#Floods #Government session #Ministry of Environment

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