Overseas in the country of Georgia the scene is frightening after flood waters swept through the city killing at least eight people and destroying the city’s zoo leaving the animals free to roam in city streets. The country has released special forces and warned residents to stay off of the streets while a hunt for the zoo animals is underway.
Torrential rains and wind washed over Tbilisi overnight on Saturday. The heavy rains caused a turning the small stream that runs through the city into a raging river. Officials have reported at least 20 people were injured, while several were missing.
The force of the water destroyed parts of the city zoo, setting free dozens of animals including lions, tigers, bears, hippos, and coyotes. Helicopters and officials on foot are circling the city searching for the animals. Zoo spokeswoman Mzia Sharashidze confirmed that many animals were killed by flooding or special forces but it was still unknown how many remained loose in the city. She said, “Not many animals are still on the loose but it is difficult to say how many are still out there.” Three of the zoo’s employees were killed during the floods but it remains unclear if they were killed by the fast rising water or by an animal.
In Tbilisi a hippopotamus roamed the streets, it hippo was cornered in one of the city’s main squares and subdued with a tranquilizer gun, according to the zoo. Also six wolves were shot dead, while one lion and hyena were presumed dead in the floods.
The floods damaged countless homes and left the streets coated with mud and debris. The damage is estimated to be in the range of $20 million.
Source NBC
