Potential ice dams could develop in the local waterway near Kolymskoye settlement.
Ice Jam Formation and Rising Water Levels Near Kolymskoye
A potential ice jam and a subsequent increase in water levels are posing a significant threat to the settlement of Kolymskoye, situated in the Lower Kolymsky District, according to regional emergency services. The concern stems from persistent ice drift on the Lena and Kolyma rivers.
In the coming two to three days, intense ice drift on the Lena River is anticipated in the Bulunsky District. yesterday, the ice drift advanced by 140 kilometers in a single day. As for the Kolyma River in the Middle Kolyma District, current ice drift has spanned 93 kilometers with no advancement reported.
The Ust-Middle Kansk Hydroelectric Power Station's water releases have caused water levels to fluctuate, with the flooding of Zyryanka Airport's runway persisting. Ice breakup on the Kolyma River is being hindered by insufficient ice preparation, increasing the risk of new ice jams near Kolymskoye and the subsequent rise in water levels.
Ice drift on the Yana River is currently observed in the Ust-Yana District, while ice movement on the Indigirka River affects the Abyi District. Ice drift in the Allakhovsky District is expected from May 27-28.
For the Berezovka River in the Middle Kolyma District, water levels are projected to increase over the next two days to between 990 and 1030 centimeters, potentially causing spillage onto the banks and flooding of low-lying areas. Ice cover on the Alazeya River is moving near Argahtakh, with anticipated river breakup within the next one to two days.
Siberia's extensive river system, including the Ob, Yenisei, Lena, and Kolyma, may experience heightened flood risk during their respective spring ice break-up periods due to factors like snowmelt rates, temperature anomalies, and river morphology. Residents in low-lying areas should remain vigilant and be prepared for possible evacuation, while authorities should ensure critical infrastructure is prepped for high water and ice impacts.
To stay informed, follow regional hydrometeorological bulletins, regional emergency management agencies, and satellite monitoring services for the most up-to-date information on ice jams and water levels.
In the light of the deteriorating situation, it's crucial to monitor the environmental-science aspect of the weather, particularly the ice drift on the Kolyma River, as insufficient ice preparation is augmenting the risk of new ice jams near Kolymskoye and a subsequent rise in water levels. As Siberia's extensive river system, including the Lena and Kolyma rivers, undergo their spring ice break-up, it's imperative to stay updated on water levels and ice jams through regional hydrometeorological bulletins, emergency management agencies, and satellite monitoring services.
