Lightning Strike Disrupts Water Supply in Valka; Road Works Ahead
On July 4, a lightning strike hit a communication cable at a water tower in Valka, temporarily cutting off water supply. Repairs restored water by Sunday noon. A road closure on Rūjienas Street for water main repairs is scheduled from July 8.
Last Saturday, July 4, after 3 p.m., residents of Valka were left without drinking water due to a lightning strike during a thunderstorm. The bolt struck a communication cable at the water tower on Tālavas Street, damaging the electronic control systems. Executive director Valdis Šaicāns explained that the lightning destroyed the computer, hard drive, and control buttons essential for operating the water pumps.
Water supply was restored by noon on Sunday. The exact material losses have not yet been calculated. Electronics specialist Edgars Ārgalis and municipal employees were involved in repairing the damage.
Additionally, videos on social media showed flooding on Ausekļa Street near a furniture store. Šaicāns noted that due to heavy rainfall, water volumes exceeded normal levels, and the storm drainage system could not handle the excess immediately. Similar flooding was observed in Smiltene and Valga.
Starting Wednesday, July 8, a section of Rūjienas Street from the intersection with Varoņu Street to the entrance of the “Mere” store will be closed for main water pipeline repairs. The work is expected to last up to 10 days. Heavy traffic will be diverted via Tālavas and Ausekļa streets. Drivers are advised to follow traffic signs and plan their routes accordingly.
