The politician said that the volume of water was so great that no stormwater drainage system can withstand such a load.
In a recent social media post, he added that the city had already received one and a half month's worth of rainfall.
According to the British daily The Independent, emergency services said a family of five was among those killed when floodwaters swept them from their ground-floor flat.
Rescue teams worked through the night in Odessa, pulling cars from the water and pumping out flooded buildings. They were also searching for a missing girl, but she was later found dead.
President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his condolences on social media, saying: “A horrific situation in Odesa these days – nine people have died as a result of the natural disaster, including a child. My condolences to their families and loved ones.”
Zelensky noted that Ukraine’s State Emergency Service and the National Police are engaged in rescue operations and recovery work.
Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba has been reporting on the situation and investigating the circumstances behind the tragedy. Zelenskiy instructed him to conduct a full review of operations in Odesa and all the factors that could have contributed to such severe consequences.
“This Friday, I expect a detailed report,” he added.
On Wednesday, Ukraine observed Defenders’ Day and the Feast of the Intercession, honoring those who have contributed to the country’s defense.
On the occasion, Zelensky met with Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, marking her first visit to Ukraine since independence was restored. The meeting took place at the historic Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv.
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Source: X/@ZelenskyyUa/@SESU_UA/The Independent/Facebook/gtrukhanov