June 28 in the Nookat district of Osh region, Kyrgyzstan, around 16:10 local time, a devastating mudflow occurred. Mud and water flooded dozens of yards, damaged two bridges, roads, and electrical substations. A state of emergency was declared in the area.
The mudflow washed away the road to Abshyr-Ata waterfall, leaving approximately 1300 people stranded. Helicopters were dispatched for evacuation. According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES), all evacuated individuals underwent medical checks and were safely transported home.
Rescuers ferried 180 people across the river at Abshyr-Ata recreation area. Unfortunately, mudflows swept away people who were relaxing on the riverbank.
As of June 30, according to MES Kyrgyzstan, nine people have died due to the aftermath of the mudflow.
To manage the aftermath in Abshyr-Ata village, 637 personnel and 19 pieces of specialized equipment have been mobilized. MES has established a special headquarters. Currently, 127 rescuers, 12 medical professionals, and psychologists are involved in operations.
The Ministry of Health reported that 204 medical personnel are conducting field visits to assist the affected in the Nookat district.
Extreme weather events related to water are becoming more frequent. Unusually heavy rains worldwide are causing destructive floods, landslides, and mudflows. Concurrently, the number of areas experiencing precipitation deficits and droughts is increasing. This highlights the chaotic nature and imbalance in atmospheric processes directly linked to atmospheric moisture content.
Encouragingly, technology already exists to more evenly distribute rainfall and significantly reduce droughts and floods worldwide. However, it's crucial to remember that this technology won't solve the root causes of global climate change. We need to unite efforts and global scientific potential to find and implement solutions capable of preserving our planet.
For more information on the technology that can save lives today, watch the documentary film: "Water From Air: The Path to Saving Humanity | Popular Science Film."