MOSCOW, March 30 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in Russia's Republic of Dagestan declared a regional state of emergency in eight municipalities on Monday following severe storms, according to a decree by regional head Sergei Melikov.
According to TASS news agency, the emergency status covers the cities of Makhachkala, Buinaksk, Dagestanskiye Ogni, Kaspiysk and Khasavyurt. The Derbent, Karabudakhkent, and Khasavyurt districts are also included in the declaration.
Heavy rainfall, strong winds and landslides, which began on Saturday, have caused widespread disruption. The regional press service reported that the situation remains most critical in the capital city of Makhachkala.
Mass power outages and water supply interruptions have been reported across the republic. Local authorities have responded by opening temporary accommodation centers and distributing drinking water to affected residents.
Utility services and government officials are working around the clock to mitigate the damage. Recovery efforts are currently focused on restoring essential services and clearing flooded residential areas.
