Flood clean-up continues in Talsu Municipality; most roads reopened
After heavy rains on July 20, the situation in Talsu region has stabilized, with authorities working to repair damage. Two road sections remain closed, including the P128 highway near Dursupe.
The local government of Talsu Municipality, together with emergency services and road maintenance crews, continues to deal with the consequences of the downpour that hit on July 20. According to the municipality, the situation has now returned to normal and there is no longer any danger, allowing authorities to make considered decisions about infrastructure restoration.
Latest reports indicate that water levels shifted from the Dursupe River to the Roja River in Valdgale parish by the end of the week, later moving partly into the Stende River towards Ventspils. A total of 53 road sections have been identified with varying degrees of damage. Minor repairs are starting this week, while price surveys for larger renovation works are expected to be completed next week.
The most challenging issue is the Dursupe mill dam, which broke through on Monday night. The municipality is evaluating several response options, as public and expert opinions differ. One proposal involves demolishing the dam and restoring the river’s natural channel, flow, and fish migration routes. Local residents oppose this, fearing the loss of the familiar village landscape with the lake. Environmental advocates and certain regulations, however, argue against rebuilding the dam. All options will be discussed with experts and residents of Balgale parish.
Traffic and public transport
Most roads are now open, but two exceptions remain. The regional road P128 (Sloka–Talsi) near Dursupe (kilometer 55.2) is closed, with detours shown in the interactive map of Latvian State Roads. The municipal road Upeslīči–Salas in Balgale parish is also impassable, as the damaged dam at Seviķi has not yet been repaired. Since July 25, public transport has resumed serving the stops “Liesma”, “Mežuļi”, and “Dursupe”.
Help for residents
Residents are reminded that the water utility SIA “Talsu ūdens” reports the sewage system is under maximum load because some households illegally discharge rainwater into sanitary sewers. The company calls on violators to disconnect these connections, warning that inspections with smoke generators will lead to compensation payments. Reports of flooding or sewage issues should be sent via email with photos or videos and a precise address. For damage to homes and roofs, residents should contact SIA “Talsu namsaimnieks”. Farmers are urged to use the LAD mobile app to submit information about irreversible damage to fields and crops. In emergencies, call 112. Other contacts include municipal police, Sadales tīkls for electricity issues, and Latvian State Roads.
