Death toll in Odesa rises to 10 after extreme rainstorm
Photo: Ten people died in Odesa due to flooding (facebook.com/DSNSODE)
In Odesa, as of the evening of October 1, it is known that 10 people have died as a result of flooding caused by heavy rain, according to Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration, Oleksii Kuleba.
"Odesa. The city is experiencing severe consequences of the natural disaster. Already, 10 people have died due to the bad weather. Among them is a child," Kuleba noted.
He reminded that tomorrow had been declared a day of mourning in the city.
According to Kuleba, on Friday, October 3, he is preparing a report for the country’s leadership on the causes and consequences of the tragedy in Odesa. Proposals will also be presented at the state level: additional assistance for the victims and personnel decisions.
Due to flooding, falling trees, power outages, and damage, more than 1,000 people have already requested assistance. About 300 private houses and around 400 apartment buildings have been damaged in the city.
Compensation and assistance to those affected
"Our top priority is to help every family, provide compensation, and support those most affected," the Deputy Prime Minister stressed.
A temporary commission has already been created under the Odesa Regional Military Administration to investigate the causes and circumstances of the tragedy. It will determine why the city’s warning system did not function properly. People did not receive information about the risks, and schools did not switch to remote learning.
"The families of the victims and those affected will receive financial assistance. Compensation will be provided by both the city and the region. A separate support program for residents will be implemented," he said.
Kuleba noted that a hotline for victims will be established in Odesa. Everyone who faced flooding or lost property will be able to seek help. Every family whose home was destroyed or damaged should receive payments and assistance.
The official emphasized that the issue of flooded shelters must be resolved as soon as possible.
Earlier, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy promised that large-scale inspections would be carried out in Odesa following the downpour that led to fatalities.
