Analysis of main periods of catastrophic floods in the Yesil river basin

Abstract

The article analyzes the record of catastrophic floods for the Yesil river basin in the XIX, XX and
XXI centuries. Information and data about floods are taken from hydrometeorological periodic publications,
archival data, electronic resources, scientific articles and other sources. The study of hydrological
aspects is of strategical relevance to ensure the sustainable development of river catchments
of Kazakhstan. The studied Yesil River Basin is one of the most important regions of the country, with
a need for comprehensive hydrological research as the capital city of Astana is rapidly developing.
Analysis of existing materials allowed us to identify the flooded areas, the dates of flood occurrence,
their causes and an assessment of flood damage. Following earlier research, the causes of flooding
were classified into 7 main groups that are typical for flood conditions in the basin. As a result, the
main factors that led to flooding were the contributions from melting snow and precipitation. Climate
change and human activities were also noted to have an impact to flooding. The scale and amount of
flood damage was assessed.