Yachts and boats were carried away by floodwaters in Lermont and Novomikhailsky.
The Black Sea Turns Brown: Severe Flooding Hits Tuapse Region
The Black Sea near the Tuapse region, including Lermontovo and Novomikhaylovskoye, has turned brown due to severe flooding that occurred on August 3, 2025[1][4]. The floodwaters, caused by intense and rapid rainfall, have led to the Defan River overflowing, carrying debris, mud, and logs into the sea, resulting in the discoloration of the coastal waters.
The flooding was severe enough to carry away several dozen boats, including yachts and boats, in the Lermontovo and Novomikhaylovskoye areas[2][3]. Local residents are attempting to save tourist transport from drifting in the water, but the situation remains challenging.
The flooding was accompanied by tornadoes, exacerbating the damage. Hundreds of buildings were submerged, bridges (such as one in Lermontovo) were destroyed by the floodwaters carrying debris, and many settlements lost road access[1][3][4]. A state of emergency has been declared, and large-scale evacuation and rescue operations are underway to assist affected residents and contain the disaster's effects[1].
The region remains heavily affected, with ongoing rescue efforts and infrastructure damage. The water discoloration reflects the flood’s sediment load, but it is expected to gradually clear as runoff reduces and sediment settles[1][4]. The report did not mention any casualties or damage to infrastructure, but the flooding has caused significant disruption.
The event was reported by the Telegram channel "Sochi with a Spark"[5]. It is important to note that no direct connection to any oil spill or other contamination in this specific event has been reported for these August 2025 floods in Tuapse. The discoloration is primarily due to natural sediment and debris transport caused by extreme weather flooding[1][4].
In an unusual twist, some local residents are now using logs carried away by the floodwaters as makeshift surfboards[6]. Despite the challenging circumstances, the resilience of the local community is evident in their efforts to adapt and cope with the situation.
[1] Sochi with a Spark [2] Russian News Agency [3] Interfax [4] BBC News [5] Telegram [6] Local news report
Despite the general-news of the severe flooding in Tuapse, some residents have found a way to enjoy sports by using logs as makeshift surfboards. Unfortunate accidents, such as boats being carried away, have occurred during the flooding.
