Storms and Floods Disrupt Life in Dagestan

Power Outages Sweep the Republic

On 9 January 2026, a severe weather system knocked out electricity for more than 107,000 residents across Dagestan. The blackout, triggered by icy winds and heavy snow, left households, schools and small businesses in darkness, prompting emergency crews to deploy generators and restore service where possible.

Floodwaters Force Mass Evacuations

Simultaneously, torrential rains caused rivers to overflow, inundating low‑lying districts of Makhachkala and surrounding villages. Thousands fled their homes, seeking shelter in schools and community centers. Local authorities declared a state of emergency, coordinating with the Ministry of Emergency Situations to distribute food, blankets and clean water.

Rail Network Paralyzed

The deluge also swamped sections of the regional railway, submerging tracks and halting passenger and freight trains. Officials warned that delays could persist for several days as engineers work to pump out water and assess structural damage.

Municipal Leaders Convene Amid Crisis

Amid the chaos, the Council of Municipal Formations gathered at the House of Friendship in Makhachkala to discuss coordinated response measures. The meeting underscored the growing pressure on regional infrastructure and the need for faster investment in flood defenses.

The combination of power loss, flooding and transport disruption highlights the vulnerability of the North Caucasus republic to extreme weather, raising urgent questions about climate resilience and state preparedness.