MES issues weather warning to Azerbaijan's population

In response to forecasted severe weather conditions, the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) has issued an official appeal to the population, urging citizens to strictly adhere to relevant safety protocols.

Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the ministry released a formal statement detailing necessary precautions against upcoming atmospheric hazards.

Strong winds and flood risks: Key safety measures

The ministry emphasized that special precautions must be taken to protect against flooding, as well as flash floods and mudflows caused by intensive rainfall. Citizens are advised to stay away from hazard-prone areas and immediately seek higher ground if faced with such threats.

The public is urged to follow the instructions and recommendations of rescuers without hesitation. Furthermore, during strong winds, the following rules must be observed:

• Stay away from light constructions, temporary structures, buildings, and billboards.
• Do not stand under power poles, wires, or tall trees.

Given the difficulties strong winds create for firefighting operations, fire safety regulations must be strictly followed. Additionally, small vessel operators are reminded that heading out to sea is prohibited under these conditions.

Protecting life during lightning strikes

The ministry noted that several vital steps should be taken to mitigate the risks associated with lightning:

• Disconnect electrical appliances from the grid and avoid using telephones (landlines, mobile phones, or payphones).
• When outdoors, do not approach power lines, lightning rods, gutters, or antennas.
• Avoid seeking shelter under tall trees; instead, choose relatively low-lying areas.
• If in a vehicle, stop movement, roll up the windows, and wait for the lightning to subside.

Weather forecast: What to expect in the coming days

According to the National Hydrometeorological Service, unstable weather conditions and precipitation are expected across Azerbaijan starting today and continuing over the next few days.

Intensive rainfall is anticipated in various regions, with short-term flash floods and mudflows expected in some mountain rivers. The service warned that intensive and occasionally strengthening rains may impact flood-prone areas in the Baku suburbs, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds.

In Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Emergency Situations regularly issues such warnings to ensure public safety during seasonal transitions. The country's diverse topography, ranging from the Greater Caucasus mountains to the low-lying Kur-Araz lowland, makes it susceptible to rapid weather changes, particularly during the spring and autumn months when heavy rains can lead to sudden rises in river levels.