Torrential rainfall caused widespread flash flooding across major thoroughfares and residential yards in Odesa, forcing city authorities to alter public transport routes and suspend several tram lines, Odesa City Council announced on July 22.
Heavy downpours inundated multi-story residential courtyards and key city arteries, creating swift currents that swept away parked passenger cars and municipal trash containers.
Due to the severe weather conditions, municipal transport authorities temporarily adjusted trolleybus routes and suspended service along several tram routes.
City officials closed several flooded streets to traffic while announcing that municipal utility crews were working under an emergency operational mandate to clear clogged drainage systems.
"We urge residents and guests of the city not to park vehicles over storm drain grates or under trees, and to limit movement around the city whenever possible," Odesa City Council stated in an official advisory.