Joint Information of the ministries of Ecology and Natural Resources, The Ministry of Emergency Situations, Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency and Baku City Executive Power:

Operational measures are being taken to eliminate the consequences caused by rain observed in the country.

This was stated in a joint statement by the Ministries of Ecology and Natural Resources, The Ministry of Emergency Situations, Baku City Executive Power and the State Water Resources Agency of Azerbaijan.

It was noted that, as previously reported by the National Hydrometeorological Service of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the ongoing rainy weather in the country will gradually stop in Baku and Absheron peninsula from the second half of the day. According to weather forecasters, as of October 22 at 9:00, the amount of precipitation in Baku and Absheron peninsula amounted to 86 mm (306% of the monthly norm).

In order to eliminate the problems arising in the flooded areas in the territory of Baku city and Absheron district due to the intensive precipitation, the relevant bodies operate continuously in an enhanced mode of operation and carry out joint actions.

The forces of the Ministry of Emergency Situations are immediately involved in the areas in connection with the incident, providing for the removal of water from flooded places, the evacuation of citizens in need of help and other necessary security measures.

It was noted that the Baku City Executive Power conducted investigations in connection with the flooding to identify weak points in the urban area, especially in bridges, tunnels and crossings. Relevant instructions have been given to the relevant authorities regarding the strengthening and improvement of water pumps in bridges, tunnels and crossings in the city. At present, inventory works are being carried out on the network and water collectors collecting rainwater on the streets, measures are being taken to identify shortcomings, prevent such cases in the future and promptly eliminate such cases.

The brigades of the State Water Resources Agency's United Water Supply Service of major cities were also observed to take timely, methodical action to clear sewage and rain collectors, remove accumulated water from the areas, and remove the effects of rain.