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A powerful storm struck the Shymbulak mountain ski resort this morning, causing considerable alarm as strong winds led to violent swaying of cable car cabins and the toppling of a large tree onto a roadway.

Cable Cars Rocked by Gale-Force Winds

Videos circulating on social media captured the dramatic scene, showing the cable car cabins at Shymbulak oscillating intensely due to the force of the wind. Fortunately, the cabins were unoccupied at the time of the incident, preventing any potential injuries.

Tree Falls, Blocking Roadway

In a separate but related event, a massive tree was uprooted and fell across a road, obstructing traffic. The Department of Emergency Situations confirmed that the strong winds were the cause of the tree's collapse.

Emergency Services Respond Swiftly

The Almaty City Department of Emergency Situations issued a statement regarding the incident. "At 09:15 AM, we received a report of a tree falling onto the road between Medeu and Shymbulak. Rescuers and employees of the state national natural park were dispatched to the scene. The road was cleared promptly. There were no casualties or injuries," the department reported.

Wider Impact of the Storm

Residents of Almaty had earlier reported unusual cloud formations accompanying the strong winds. In some areas, the gusts were so severe that they caused damage, including roofs being blown off and walls being displaced.