Floods in northern Armenia: deaths, destroyed bridges and roads

Torrential rain on the night of 26 May caused the Debed River in Lori Province to burst its banks. Communities in Tavush Province were also affected. According to the authorities, several people were killed.

The most serious damage is in Alaverdi, Shnogh and Akhtala. Houses have been damaged, sections of roads washed away and several bridges destroyed. Traffic on the highway to Georgia via Bagratashen has been temporarily closed, and rail services suspended.

Rescuers evacuated residents from flooded areas. The government has set up a headquarters to deal with the aftermath, and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan visited the area.

Affected families have been promised compensation. The Ministry of Territorial Administration estimates that restoring road infrastructure will take several months.