On April 5, 2025, Almaty was engulfed by a severe dust storm, drastically reducing visibility and prompting city officials to take urgent measures. Residents took to social media to share alarming images and videos of the storm, which caused significant disruptions throughout the city.
The dust storm, described by some as "apocalypse" due to its intensity, led to the temporary closure of the Medeu – Shymbulak highway, a popular route for both locals and tourists. The administration of the resort confirmed that all guests currently in gondolas would be safely transported to their destinations, but ticket sales were halted until conditions improved.
As the storm progressed, reports emerged of power outages affecting several homes across Almaty. The local emergency services, known as DChS, had issued a storm warning earlier, indicating that the city would experience heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds of up to 20 meters per second.
In anticipation of the worsening weather, which was expected to continue into April 6, city officials prepared 4,200 bags of sand to mitigate potential flooding. These bags were strategically placed in areas deemed at risk of inundation. Additionally, drainage crews and teams equipped with motor pumps were deployed to address any local flooding that might arise.
The forecast for the coming days suggested rain accumulation could reach up to 14 millimeters, with the possibility of sleet in the mountainous regions surrounding Almaty. The city's airport, however, continued to operate normally despite the adverse weather conditions.
As the storm swept through, residents expressed their concerns about the visibility and safety conditions. One local shared on social media, "Visibility is terrible; it feels like the end of the world!" This sentiment echoed across various platforms as citizens grappled with the storm's impact on daily life.
While the storm brought challenges, it also highlighted the city's preparedness for extreme weather events. The coordinated response from city services aimed to ensure the safety of residents and minimize disruptions as much as possible.
As the situation unfolded, the Akimat of Almaty continued to monitor weather developments closely, providing updates to the public regarding safety measures and weather forecasts. The city remains on alert, with emergency services ready to respond to any further complications arising from the storm.
In summary, the dust storm that struck Almaty on April 5, 2025, served as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community preparedness in facing such unpredictable weather events.
