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The Georgian Rugby Union has confirmed that the World Rugby Tbilisi Cup tournament will continue as planned despite heavy flooding in a section of the city adjacent the Vere River. Avchala Stadium is located approximately 14 km north of the area and has not been affected in any way.
Major news outlets reported the flooding today with pictures of wild animals roaming freely in the streets after the Tbilisi Zoo suffered extensive damage to its infrastructure. Houses in the area have also been damaged, and 12 people are reported to have died. Mud and debris have washed out large stretches of roads and shut down water and electricity in the area.
The flooding was caused by heavy rains that caused the Vere River to exceed its banks. Both the Prime Minister and President have visited the turmoil and a day of mourning has been declared for Monday.
Several Georgian international players not participating in the tournament are participating in the clean-up efforts, including Merab Kvirikashvili and Irakli Kiasashvili, pictured above. The Tbilisi Cup resumes on Wednesday as Emerging Ireland take on Uruguay, and Emerging Italy face hosts Georgia.
