Imminent downpour results in festival cancellations in Thuringia.
Thuringia is gearing up for a severe weather weekend. Heavy rain and strong thunderstorms have been forecast, with up to 100 liters of rain possible per square meter in some areas over the next 24 hours. Cathleen Hickmann of the German Weather Service says that while the Eichsfeld region may escape the worst, other areas should be prepared for heavy downpours.
These storms can cause various hazards, including lightning strikes, uprooted trees, occasional flash flooding on roads and underpasses, and hail. Drivers should be aware of the risks of aquaplaning in these conditions. Additionally, the already-full rivers and soils that can't absorb much more water are cause for concern.
The organizers of the ongoing church congress in Erfurt have taken these forecasted rains into account. They're in constant contact with the German Weather Service and will cancel or relocate any open-air events if necessary. Participants will be informed via the Catholic Congress app. Some 20,000 visitors are expected at this predominantly outdoor event until Sunday.
Several events across Thuringia have already been cancelled due to the potential safety risks for attendees. These include the fountain festival with parade in Bad Berka, a children's festival in Gotha, and the opening of the new bike area in Zella-Mehlis.
The district of Schmalkalden-Meiningen has chosen to postpone the city cycling event set for June 1st out of caution. Mühlhausen has also rescheduled their children's bike festival.
The fire department in the Altenburg region is on standby, as some communities have already taken preventative measures with sandbags. Residents are encouraged to monitor the weather situation and contact their local authorities if the need arises, as the disaster control team may be called in. "I hope that we'll get through the Altenburg region unscathed," said District Administrator Uwe Melzer.
The DRK Water Rescue Service has issued a warning about the dangers associated with rising water levels in Thuringia. High flow rates and increasing water volumes can create a deadly trap for both children and animals. Additionally, slippery and softened banks can lead to landslides. Flooded areas and flood meadows should be avoided.
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The impending thunderstorms in Thuringia are predicted to bring heavy rain, potentially reaching 100 liters per square meter, which could pose a threat to the Eichsfeld region as well. The ongoing church congress in Erfurt is actively monitoring the weather, prepared to cancel or relocate open-air events due to the rain. The fountain festival with parade in Bad Berka, a children's festival in Gotha, and the opening of the new bike area in Zella-Mehlis are among the events already cancelled due to the safety risks.
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