Meteorologists are forecasting heavy rain in the mountains around Almaty, which could trigger mudflows. Kursiv Lifestyle explains when it could be life-threatening to head into the mountains.
During the recent 40°C heat, residents found relief in the mountains. They shared videos on social media showing dozens of people relaxing there, especially near waterfalls and mountain rivers.
Now, however, as Kazhydromet, Kazakhstan’s national hydrometeorological service, forecasts temperatures dropping to 31°C, heading into the mountains around Almaty is becoming unsafe. Heavy rainfall is expected in the mountains, and Kazselezashchita, Kazakhstan’s agency responsible for monitoring and preventing mudflows and avalanches, has advised people to avoid hiking to the mountains from July 21 to 23.
«Water levels in mountain rivers may rise, sheet flow may form and localized flooding is possible,» the agency said in a statement.
In early July, emergency officials also urged residents and visitors to avoid the mountains because of the risk of mudflows. Separately, Kursiv LifeStyle reported that a tourist from the U.K. lost personal belongings and a tent due to a mudflow that struck Left Talgar Gorge.
