Krāslava tests evacuation plan after August storm

Krāslava municipality has tested its readiness to evacuate residents in the event of a military threat, with the exercise highlighting problems that remain unresolved after a damaging storm in August, LSM reported.

Under the plan, residents would be moved from a 30-kilometre border zone to central Latvia. In Dagda, people travelled from gathering points near the youth centre, community centre and parish administration to a temporary accommodation point.

Organisers initially expected at least 20 people to take part, but interest was higher than anticipated: around 80 people were registered on the first trips. Participants said practical exercises helped them understand where to go and what to do during an alarm, and could help prevent panic.

Volunteers helped register arrivals and respond to their needs. The municipality publicised the exercise on its website, social media and in newspapers.

Municipal officials said the August storm, which left parts of the area without electricity and communications for several days, had exposed further challenges. One concern is access to medicines during a power outage. Volunteer coordinator Zane Ločmele said a real emergency would bring more difficulties, despite preparations such as drawing up lists on paper and electronically.