On July 6, 49 people, including seven children, drowned in waters across Russia due to a severe heatwave, the Ministry for Emergency Situations reported on July 7. This marked a significant rise in incidents compared to the same day last year, with 65 water-related accidents recorded in 24 hours.
Russia is experiencing some of the hottest weather in over a century, with temperatures exceeding 35° Celsius (95° Fahrenheit) in many areas. Moscow broke a 1917 heat record, and cities across the country are facing extreme heat. The Service for Hydrometeorology forecasts that parts of southern Russia could see temperatures above 40° Celsius (104° Fahrenheit).
In Nizhny Novgorod, a 10-year-old girl drowned in the Volga River, and her six-year-old sister is missing, with divers still searching. In Bashkiria, located between the Volga River and the Ural Mountains, three people, including a 16-year-old girl, drowned.
The heatwave has driven many people to seek relief in water bodies, increasing the number of drowning incidents. The Ministry for Emergency Situations is closely monitoring the situation and providing updates via the Telegram messaging app.
Authorities are issuing warnings and urging the public to take precautions during this period of extreme temperatures. The ongoing heatwave continues to pose significant risks across Russia, especially related to water activities.