Russia and Kazakhstan face severe flooding as major rivers overflow their banks | Global News

The Russian city of Orenburg is currently facing a major crisis as rising water levels have caused widespread flooding in the area. The deluge of meltwater from major rivers in Russia and Kazakhstan has forced over 110,000 people from their homes, with residents in Orenburg describing the situation as a nightmare.

The Ural River, which flows through Kazakhstan into the Caspian Sea, overwhelmed embankments, leading to the rapid rise of water levels in Orenburg. Residents had to flee with just their children, pets, and a few belongings as the waters rose beyond breaking point.

Officials in Orenburg warned that the river would continue to rise, posing a serious threat to the city and its residents. The flooding has also affected other regions in Russia, including Siberia and the Urals, as well as northern Kazakhstan.

The situation has sparked anger among residents, with some demanding greater compensation and assistance from President Vladimir Putin. Local officials have been criticized for not adequately preparing for the annual snow melt, which has exacerbated the flooding this year.

Emergency workers have been working tirelessly to deal with the rising waters, but the scale of the disaster is overwhelming. Climate researchers have pointed to rising temperatures as a contributing factor to the severe flooding, highlighting the importance of addressing climate change to prevent future disasters.

As the crisis continues to unfold, the people of Orenburg and other affected regions are looking for support and assistance to help them recover from this devastating natural disaster.