What is the location of the flooding?
Heavy rainfall since March 29, 2026, has triggered severe flash floods and landslides in southern Russia, particularly in the Republic of Dagestan in the North Caucasus. The capital Makhachkala has been hardest hit (1).
A second wave of intense rain in early April worsened the situation, causing further inundation and infrastructure damage (2).
Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?
Flooding is concentrated in Dagestan, with Makhachkala worst affected, including partial collapse of a multi-story apartment building due to soil erosion.
Surrounding districts, especially Derbent, and several villages have also been severely impacted. Over 460 homes have been flooded, with streets submerged and transport disrupted (3).
What is the current containment status of the flooding?
A state of emergency remains in effect. Emergency services have evacuated more than 5,000 people and are conducting ongoing rescue operations. Power has been cut to over 327,000 people in some areas (3).
Rescue teams continue working amid risks of further rain, landslides, and mudflows. A criminal probe has been opened into the deaths (4).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Thousands of residents have been evacuated from flood zones, especially in Makhachkala and Derbent district. Authorities have declared a state of emergency and urge people to avoid low-lying areas, riverbanks, and flooded roads.
Health officials warn against drinking tap water due to contamination risks. Residents are advised to follow official safety guidance (5).
How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?
It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.
- Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
- Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
- If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
- Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
- Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
- Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
- Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
- If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.
Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.
