The flood level in the Vitebsk region may significantly exceed the average long-term values

February 19, Vitebsk / Sergey Kochetov - BELTA/. The flood water level in the Vitebsk region is predicted to be significantly higher than the average long-term values, which will require the mobilization of forces and resources of all services and structures of the region to ensure the accident-free passage of the spring flood. This was announced today by the head of the regional department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, Vasily Chekan, at a meeting of the regional commission for emergency situations, a BELTA correspondent reports. This year, a complex flood situation has developed in the river basins of the Western Dvina, Disna, and Dnieper. Due to heavy rainfall in the upper reaches of the Western Dvina in the Russian Federation, water reserves in the snow are higher than the average long-term values, and as a result of severe frosts, the ice thickness on the region's water bodies reaches 40 cm, and in some river sections, even more. The opening of rivers from ice is predicted for mid-March, and with the onset of warming, a rise in water levels and river flooding is possible, with floodwaters reaching the floodplain and flooding houses in Vitebsk, Orsha, Polotsk, and Verkhnedvinsk district, as well as a number of other district centers. In total, 790 houses with a population of about 2.3 thousand people in 17 settlements may fall into the zone of possible flooding by flood and meltwaters. In addition, a number of livestock agricultural facilities may be flooded. The available forces and resources in the region allow for ensuring the stable operation of all facilities in the region during this difficult period and minimizing the consequences of the flood, noted Vasily Chekan. For this purpose, the regional commission has approved a plan of measures to ensure the accident-free passage of floodwaters. Units of the Ministry of Emergency Situations will be transferred to an enhanced duty regime, and water-lifting equipment and watercraft are being prepared. Situational headquarters will be formed in all regions to develop management decisions for the prevention and elimination of possible emergencies. 27 facilities (schools, dormitories, sanatoriums) are being prepared to receive evacuated people, and accommodation in hotels, recreation centers, and reserve housing is also provided for if necessary. The region is creating the necessary reserves of material resources, including fuel, building materials, and food. Rural outpatient clinics are equipped with an additional supply of medicines. Extensive explanatory work is being carried out among the population living in the potential flood zone. -0-