The Volga-Kama cascade of reservoirs is switching to winter operation mode
The navigation period of 2025 is coming to an end at the Volga-Kama cascade of reservoirs and the planned transition to winter operation begins. The corresponding modes of operation of hydraulic engineering units for the period from November 11 to December 10 were approved at a meeting of the Interdepartmental Working Group.
According to the Russian Hydrometeorological Service, a stable level remains in most of the cascade. Due to the abnormally warm and prolonged autumn, glaciation on the reservoirs has not yet begun. It is expected that the ice sheet will form in the period from November 23 to November 30, which is 2-3 days later than the average annual values.
The total inflow of water into the cascade reservoirs in October was 9.54 km3 at a rate of 14.9 km3 (64% of the norm). In November, the downward trend in inflows is projected to continue: expected volumes will amount to 8.4 – 12.4 km3, or 76% of the annual average.
Starting from the second decade of November, a gradual decrease in air temperature to stable negative values (from -4 to -8 °C) is expected in the upper reaches of the Volga and Kama basins. In most of the basin (about 70%), the temperature will not exceed +4 °C.
The forecast of water inflow for the fourth quarter as a whole remains unchanged and amounts to 28-36 km3 with a norm of 38.4 km3. Taking into account the current water management situation and forecast data, recommendations were developed on the modes of operation of waterworks for the coming month.
"The main task for the coming period is to ensure the safe completion of navigation so that the river fleet can complete all planned tasks and embark on winter parking. This work should be carried out without prejudice to the population and key sectors of the economy, including energy," said Vadim Nikanorov, Deputy Head of Rosvodresursy.
The official end of the navigation period is scheduled for November 20. The next meeting of the Interdepartmental Working Group is scheduled for the first decade of December.