Tourist saved by firefighters in dinghy at 20:33.
A female driver was saved by the fire department from her car on the flooded Rhine riverbank in the district of Mainz-Kostheim. The fire department's spokesperson explained that the tourist, aged around 55, was driving to Maaue with her vehicle and trailer when she became panicked due to the flooding. She then made an emergency call. The woman was successfully brought to dry land with the rubber boat, and one of the rescuers moved her trailer to a higher elevation parking spot.
20:04 A8 highway is closed at Rohrdorf
Due to the floods, the A8 motorway leading towards Munich in the Rosenheim district is currently shut in the Frasdorf direction. On the other side, the A8 highway is closed at the Achenmuhle exit.
19:44 Decreasing water levels in Bodenseekreis
The Bodenseekreis region is showing signs of improvement, with the water levels of the Seefelder Aach, Rotach, and Schussen dropping, according to the district administration. They stated that less rain had fallen than initially anticipated. The pegel level of the Argen will peak in the evening.
19:15 Fatal accident in Schorndorf: the victims were draining water from cellar
In Schorndorf, Rems-Murr district, two individuals, a 58-year-old homeowner and his 84-year-old mother, died in a flood-related incident. Police reported that the two people were draining water from their cellar when the accident occurred. The cause of death is still unknown. They tried to pump water out of their house but died in the process - their bodies were discovered later in the empty cellar.
18:43 Rosenheim declares state of emergency
The Rosenheim district has declared an emergency status due to the persistent rain. The district administrator, Otto Lederer, said, "This move grants us the ability to meet increased demand for additional forces and more effective co-ordination of relief efforts." Pegel levels in the Rosenheim district's rivers and creeks have been steadily rising. Firefighters and THW (Technisches Hilfswerk - Federal Agency for Technical Relief) teams are on the way and preparing for a large deployment.
18:40 German Weather Service lifts heavy rain warning in Baden-Wuerttemberg
The potential for severe rain in Baden-Wuerttemberg seems to have passed as the German Weather Service (DWD) has declared no more heavy rain is expected in the region.
18:34 Green climate expert demands debt brake suspension
As the costs related to the flood damage in Baden-Wuerttemberg and Bavaria are still unclear but could be in the millions, Green climate expert Lisa Badum has advocated for the suspension of the debt brake. "We must consider suspending the debt brake in light of the expected expenses," she said.
18:17 Hesse: Rhine and Neckar water levels to remain high until Wednesday
The high water situation in Hesse remains tense on the Rhine and Neckar rivers. At four monitoring stations, warning levels have been exceeded over the weekend, reported Hessian Ministry for Nature Conservation, Environment, and Geology (HLNUG). The Rhine's levels are predicted to remain high until Wednesday. The HLNUG projects levels will surpass the Hessian warning level 3 at several stations. The water levels of the Main are expecting to further elevate on Monday. Warning levels will not be exceeded, per HLNUG predictions.
17:35 Police and fire department rescue man from car in Baden-Württemberg town of Dörzbach
As part of the flood response, police and firefighters were dispatched in Dörzbach to rescue a man trapped in his car, which was submerged in the floodwaters on a sports field where he had driven. He didn't get injured, but will have to pay for the rescue expenses.
17:01 Schorndorf Mayor: Seven fire departments dispatched, only one managed to get there
The mayor of Schorndorf, Bernd Hornikel, described remarkable events of that night's flooding. The waters rapidly flooded the region, and firefighters rushed to save the citizens in Rudersberg, Rems-Murr district. All seven fire departments in the community were dispatched, but only one managed to arrive due to the flooded roads. The local fire department lost three vehicles as they were submerged in the water. "The cars were effectively drowned," he said.
16:41 Mayor: Rescuers had to save firefighters on rooftop
Mayor Bernd Hornikel gave an account of his community's terrifying flood ordeal in Schorndorf, Rems-Murr district. Due to the sudden speed of the rising waters, firefighters had to rescue themselves by taking shelter atop their emergency vehicle's roof while waiting for a rescue team to arrive.
Due to a break in the dam on the River Amper in northern Bavaria, a number of people in the area need to leave their homes. This affects approximately a dozen people in the regions of Moosburg an der Isar in the Freising district. An asylum shelter was evacuated on Saturday. The water levels of the Amper have surpassed historical highs. The water level at Inkofen was 3.98 meters on Monday morning - the previous record from 1994 was 3.66 meters.
16:22 Additional dam breaks expected in Swabia
More dam breaches are expected in Swabia as a result of the widespread flooding. In the Donau-Ries district, residents in the towns of Heißesheim and Auchsesheim are advised to leave the area, as there is a possibility that the dams could collapse. The Donauwörth district administration said this after a warning was issued on Sunday night. Emergency shelters have been set up.
15:52 Boil water in these districts
The health department at the Donau-Ries district office has expanded its recommendation to boil water due to the ongoing flooding situation. Initially, the recommendation applied to the communities of Mertingen and Oberndorf, but now residents of the following communities and districts are also instructed to boil their drinking water before further use: Eggelstetten, Genderkingen, Bäumenheim, Heißesheim, Überfeldsiedlung, Asbach-Bäumenheim, Hamlar, and the Kaisheimer districts of Sulzdorf and Gunzenheim.
15:27 Severe storm warning for middle and eastern Alpine foothills
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall in the middle and eastern Alpine foothills. According to DWD, there will be 40 to 60 liters of rainfall per square meter in six hours, along with wind gusts of up to 60 kilometers per hour and small hail. Affected areas within the administrative region of Upper Bavaria: Districts of Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen, Berchtesgaden, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Miesbach, Rosenheim, and Traunstein, as well as the city of Rosenheim.
15:08 Two fatalities in Baden-Württemberg
Two people have lost their lives in Baden-Württemberg due to the flooding. According to a spokesman from the Aalen police headquarters, the bodies of a man and a woman were found in a house in Schorndorf within the Rems-Murr district. This brings the total number of people who have died in South Germany as a result of the current flooding to at least four, as two people had previously been found in Bavaria.
14:52 THW fills 2000 sandbags every hour
The flood situation in South Germany keeps the emergency services very busy round the clock. The Technical Relief Organization Donauwörth fills 2000 sandbags per hour. In Günzburg, DLRG volunteers are rescuing people from flooded homes. And in Bavaria, the relief efforts are running at full speed. Sleep is seldom possible in many places.
14:29 Cars tossed aside by floodwater in Rudersberg
In the flooded area of Rudersberg in Baden-Württemberg, floodwaters have carried away cars. Several cars ended up on train tracks, one on a well, as seen in the images. On muddy roads, household items were washed out of houses. On a bridge, there is a huge pile of debris carried away. The town of Rudersberg in the Rems-Murr district is particularly affected by the flooding caused by the heavy rain.
14:06 Dam in danger of breaking in Niederalteich after 11 years
https://www.ntv.de/nachrichten/deutschland/hochwasser-in-bayern-was-wir-wissen-und-was-wir-wissen-nicht,did=131519081
Regarding the flood disaster that occurred 11 years ago, the residents of Niederalteich in Bavaria are once again experiencing a flood calamity. In the subsequent years, the dams were supposed to be repaired, but at one of the sections, the work is not yet complete. Here, the dam is now in danger of collapsing.
13:40 Traffic on A9 reopens towards Munich
The partially closed A9 highway in Upper Bavaria due to a dam break is now open for traffic again. However, a type of traffic control has been set up towards Munich, says a police spokesperson. Currently, only 300 cars are allowed on the section between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck in the south direction, then the road will be closed for a while. The reasons for this decision are not yet known. The A9 route towards Nuremberg has been open since early morning. "Please note that this could change," the police warns.
13:17 Scholz: Solidarity is needed now
Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasizes the importance of assistance as he visits the flood-stricken Bavarian region near Ingolstadt. In Reichertshofen, he acknowledges the magnitude of nature's forces and urges solidarity. Federal support must continue alongside the numerous rescue teams, including Bundeswehr personnel. He thanks all helpers, fondly recalling a fallen firefighter. More frequent floods are attributable to climate change, as Scholz now attends his fifth aid mission this year.
12:50 Tourist trapped in flood - Fire department saves octogenarian
The fire department has successfully extracted an 81-year-old motorist from the Hahnbach Village in Upper Palatinate. Lured by the spectacle of the Vils' deluge, the man had driven onto the inundated road. The car got mired in the water, but the driver managed to escape onto the vehicle's roof through the sunroof, seeking rescue. A bystander contacted the police. The fire department arrived with a specialized vehicle and retrieved both the flooded car and its endangered occupant.
12:25 Danube cruise ship stranded - Evacuation begins
A Danube cruise ship, hosting 150 Americans and Britons, is undergoing an evacuation due to its inability to proceed downstream at Deggendorf. The Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation reports that a boat is anchoring at the harbor to shuttle out 25 to 30 people at a time.
12:00 Danube flood resembles 2002 - May produce "second wave"
The Danube's water level keeps rising, with the Bavarian Flood Information Service predicting a flood level matching the 2002 levels of 10.80 meters in Passau's Ilzstadt: "The Danube carries as much water from Regensburg downstream as it did in 2002." The Isar's infusion into the Danube in Deggendorf highlights this situation. Last Monday, the water level stood at 7.77 meters, but the level is expected to increase further. Paul Heger, ntv's meteorologist, provides a rundown of the flood emergency and potential dangers in the ensuing days: https://www.ntv.de/nachrichten/deutschland/hochwasser-in-bayern-was-wir-wissen-und-was-wir-wissen-nicht,did=131519081
11:27 Body found in Schrobenhausen flooded basement - Victim is a 43-year-old missing since Sunday
At Schrobenhausen in Oberbayern, rescue teams uncovered a body in the flooded basement of a residence. The deceased, a 43-year-old woman, had been reported missing since Sunday. A police spokesperson provided this information.
11:21 Rems and Murr water levels remain elevated - Nursing home evacuation
The Ludwigsburg district foresees imminent hazardous conditions and rising Rems and Murr water levels. "Although there's no heavy rainfall now, we expect a further rise in the Rems and Murr water levels," states district administrator Dietmar Allgaier. In Remseck, the Rems' peak water level has not yet been achieved. The control center is continually monitoring the circumstances and directing the intervention teams. Around 250 firefighters are actively involved. A nursing home evacuation in Steinheim an der Murr transpired on Monday morning, relocating residents to other residences.
10:54 Upper Rhine closed to inland shipping traffic
Germany's longest river, the Rhine, has partially suspended inland shipping due to the excessive rainfall. "The Upper Rhine is closed for inland shipping," states a spokesperson from the Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSA). "The critical levels have been surpassed at the peg stations." Maxau (near Karlsruhe), Mannheim, and Worms have imposed these closures. In the Middle Rhine region, between Mainz and Bonn, shutdowns are likely on Wednesday or Thursday. "These should not last for an extended period," adds the spokesperson. The closures are intended to secure the riverbanks against the ships' damaging waves. These waves cause the riverbanks to overflow and flood residential areas like cellars.
10:27 North Rhine-Westphalia deploys help and vehicles to Bavarian flood zone at Landau an der Isar
North Rhine-Westphalia sends five water rescue vehicles with 48 professionals, ten vehicles, eight trailers, and six boats to the Bavarian flooding area near Landau an der Isar, where they are anticipated to provide aid. Having accepted the assistance from the North Rhine-Westphalian Interior Ministry on Sunday night, the Free State of Bavaria authorized the deployment of these rescuers.
10:04 Inhabitants of Ebersbach an der Fils evacuated
An evacuation is underway in Ebersbach an der Fils, a municipal area in Baden-Württemberg, where residents are being relocated due to increasing flood risks.
In the severely flooded town of Ebersbach an der Fils south of Stuttgart, inhabitants of various streets are being evacuated. Authorities are unable to determine the exact number of people affected by a city spokesperson at first. The affected individuals had already been warned and instructed to pack their documents and essentials. The city has announced on its Facebook page that all schools and municipal kindergartens will remain closed today because of the flooding situation.
09:41: Volunteers in Schrobenhausen continue searching for a 43-year-old woman using a helicopter and divers. Initially, it was reported that the woman had been found dead, but the Bavarian Public Broadcasting Corporation later corrected this report, and the search for the missing 43-year-old woman continues. Due to divers not being able to enter the flooded cellar of the house the day before, pumps are now being installed in the building. "We hope to find the 43-year-old woman, last seen in the basement of her house," said a police spokesman.
09:12: Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder expects the flooding to last several more days. "It's getting a little better, but we cannot give a total warning," he said on Deutschlandfunk on Monday morning. He explained that even if it stops raining, the water levels of the larger rivers will still rise due to the inflows. "Many people say it will last until Wednesday or Thursday."
08:41: The dam of the Paar River in the Upper Bavarian Pfaffenhofen district has now failed at three points. A spokeswoman for the district administration confirmed this. Residents in Baar-Ebenhausen and Manching are told to leave the ground floor of their homes and apartments and seek shelter in higher floors. Around 800 people were evacuated in Baar-Ebenhausen, while about 250 affected individuals were accommodated in the Grund- and Mittelschule Reichertshofen. The Paar is a tributary that leads into the Danube. In Vohburg, the Danube is under close observation; safety measures are being taken. The A9 is still closed in both directions between Ingolstadt and Langenbruck.
08:21: A dam in Manching has collapsed, as several media report, citing the district administration. Residents are advised to leave the ground floor of their homes and seek refuge in higher levels. Affected streets are reported to be Benediktstraße, Martinstraße, and Peterstraße.
08:01: Firefighters in Rudersberg were caught off guard by the rapidly rising water. In Rudersberg, Baden-Württemberg's Rems-Murr district, firefighters had to abandon their rescue attempts when they tried to aid residents. The firefighters were forced to retreat to the upper floors of houses and remained there for hours as their fire station was flooded, causing two vehicles to be lost.
07:39: Regensburg has declared a state of emergency due to rising Danube waters. According to the Bavarian flood warning service, the water level at the Eiserne Brücke measuring point has reached 5.90 meters, surpassing the average value of 2.70 meters previously. During the last significant flood on June 4, 2013, the measurement reached 6.82 meters.
07:20: Water rescue specialists from the Water Police have rescued twelve people from balconies and roofs in Günzburg using a police helicopter, as reported by BR. In one case, it involved a family with three children, including a baby just one week old. Because of the water masses, a rescue by boat was no longer possible.
06:50: There are fears of a dam breach in Manching. The Integrated Control Center Ingolstadt has issued a warning for people to remain in upper floors and avoid cellars and underground garages. In Baar-Ebenhausen, a dam broke on Sunday.
06:16: Residents south of Stuttgart are being evacuated due to flooding. The exact number of affected individuals cannot be determined by a city spokesperson at first. The people had been warned and asked to pack their documents and necessities. As a result of the flooding, all schools and municipal kindergartens in the city will remain closed for the day, as announced on its Facebook page.
Flooding in the area of Filstal has led to evacuations in Uhingen, a town in Göppingen district near Stuttgart. No injuries have been reported so far. Also, in the district of Göppingen, Uhingen's neighbors - Leinzell, Heuchlingen, and Göggingen - have been evacuated. This was reported by the police spokesperson. People in Ebersbach an der Fils, which is east of Ebersbach an der Fils, are in potential danger due to the rising water levels. The affected region includes residential areas, and an extraordinary emergency situation has been declared.
5:33: Communities in Ostalbkreis forced to evacuate due to floodingThe flood situation in Ostalbkreis, Baden-Württemberg, is becoming more severe. During the night, people were relocated from some parts of Leinzell, Heuchlingen, and Göggingen. The whole town of Täferrot is expected to be evacuated. The initial floods had already reached the city in the morning. Around 250 to 300 people were relocated to safety.
5:13: Baden-Württemberg deploys emergency services to Günzburg, BavariaIn response to the ongoing flood situation, Baden-Württemberg is assisting its neighboring district of Günzburg in Bavaria. Three "Medical and Care" units have been sent to the district to aid people who were forced to leave their homes and apartments. Additionally, a water rescue vehicle from Ulm will be deployed in Günzburg to aid in the evacuation process.
4:30: Esslingen builds temporary dam to prevent floodingThe city of Esslingen am Neckar is heading off a possible flooding of some parts of the inner city by building a temporary dam. The dam is being constructed at the water house on a nearby canal. The peak is expected at dawn, and if the canals in the inner city are flooded, it could result in flooding. The dam will be built during the night and on Monday morning. People living in the area should expect traffic disruptions. The city has previously discouraged residents in both the inner city and Oberesslingen from entering basements and underground garages because of the potential flood dangers.
3:26: Preparing for evacuation in Ebersbach an der FilsSome residents in certain streets of the heavily flooded Ebers Bach an der Fils south of Stuttgart have been pre-prepared for evacuations. The guidance offered to these residents was to pack personal documents and essential items in preparation for spending the night away from home. According to Esslingen's Facebook post, the fire department Ebersbach has been notified about the evacuation plans.
3:11: Heavy rain alerts lifted - yet, more heavy rain is possibleThe German Weather Service (DWD) has lifted all heavy rain warnings with thunderstorms, as the threat of heavy rain decreases. Those in southern Germany, however, should still be aware of localized heavy rain showers that may cause heavy rain. These are expected to begin around noon, particularly in areas south of the Danube and around the Bavarian Forest. Thunderstorms are also possible.
2:04: Landkreis Augsburg criticizes flood touristsThe Landkreis Augsburg has expressed concern over flood tourists, who clog rescue teams with their rescues despite ongoing warnings and safety information. These tourists tend to visit dikes, underpasses, and bodies of water, strain rescue teams, and increase their vulnerability to the dangers of flood waters. The district administration urges people to avoid these areas to alleviate the rescue teams' workload. Warnings include the risk of flood waves and unsteady manhole covers that could vacuum unsuspecting pedestrians.
1:14: Kretschmann and Strobl to tour flood-stricken regions in Baden-WürttembergWinfried Kretschmann, the Minister of Baden-Württemberg, and Thomas Strobl, the Interior Minister, are planning to visit two flood-impacted regions in their district on Monday, with a stop in Meckenbeuren, Bodenseekreis, in the morning and then Erbach, Alb-Donau-Kreis, later in the day. The state government spokesperson has confirmed these travel plans. Kretschmann decided to forego a visit to the site for the time being due to the acute nature of the crisis. "I have chosen not to visit the site in the acute stage where everyone's hands are needed and every sandbag makes a difference," he explained on Sunday evening. "I will stay informed closely while keeping at a safe distance." Rescue teams are at capacity, and emergency services are in dire need of help.
23:50: Ebersbach an der Fils issued a full-scale alarm - Noise barrier breachedThe municipality of Ebersbach an der Fils has declared a full-scale alarm as the noise barrier has broken. The next few hours are crucial for residents and helpers. Water has been moving at remarkable speeds, and this unexpected development intensifies the situation. Stay updated for more information.
In the city of Ebersbach an der Fils near Stuttgart, a full-on emergency was called on Sunday evening due to the serious flood. This means that all firefighters are now actively dealing with the situation. At the federal highway 10, substantial amounts of water have breached a noise barrier and flooded the road, which can be seen in a video shared on the city's Facebook page. The people were given a stern warning: "Please stay at home and avoid visiting the emergency sites. The situation is potentially life-threatening, as demonstrated in the video." Folks are advised against going into their basements and to remain on upper floors.
23:16: A 43-year-old missing person has been discovered dead in their cellar.
As per Bayerischer Rundfunk, the storm in South Germany has led to yet another fatality. A 43-year-old missing person was found in a cellar.
Correction: It was incorrectly stated that a woman was found dead. Bayerischer Rundfunk has since amended the statement, clarifying that the 43-year-old is still being searched for.
22:16: A signal box was hit by lightning, disrupting train traffic around Dresden for a while.
Due to a signal box failure caused by a lightning strike, train traffic in the Dresden area was disrupted in the evening. Mainly, the regional train connecting Dresden to Bautzen and Görlitz was impacted, says a representative for the railway. The lightning strike struck the signal box in Radeberg to the east of the state capital at 17:10. It was later fixed in the evening. After about two hours, the trains were operating normally again, the spokesperson notes.
22:00: A nursing home in Lauingen is being evacuated due to the flooding.
The city posts on its website that they're working to guarantee the continuous care of the residents. The people could all be accommodated and looked after in an educational center.
21:30: The dam has failed: A number of locations between the Danube and Schmutter are being evacuated.
Several settlements near the Danube and Schmutter in the Swabian district of Donau-Ries must be evacuated due to a major dam breach. The district administration in Donauwörth mentions the dam failure as the cause. Affected are the hamlets of Auchsesheim and Heißesheim, along with parts of Nordheim, Mertingen, Asbach-Bäumenheim, and Urfahrhof. Authorities ask everyone to remain calm, gather their belongings, and follow the instructions given by emergency workers. Notification centers are being set up.
21:03: Faeser visits the Bavarian flood area, too.
After more and more regions in South Germany are being flooded, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser will travel to the Bavarian flood zone on Monday. Both aim to get a better understanding of the circumstances accompanied by Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder and State Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann in Reichertshofen in the Upper Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm. The president of the Technical Relief Organization, Sabine Lackner, is also set to attend the meeting.
20:30: Numerous schools will be closed on Monday as a result of the flood situation. At least 40 schools in eight Bavarian districts will not hold in-person classes in the coming week. According to the Bavarian Ministry of Education, these include the districts of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Aichach-Friedberg, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Freising, Fürstenfeldbruck, Dachau, Dillingen, and Augsburg. For example, all primary, middle, and high schools in the Aichach-Friedberg district will have no classes on Monday, as well as the local grammar schools, vocational and professional high schools, and special education centers. In Wertingen in the Dillingen district, all schools will be closed. Additionally, numerous schools in the Pfaffenhofen district will not have classes on Monday. According to the Pfaffenhofen district admin, some kindergartens will also not operate on Monday. On Monday and Tuesday, in-person classes will be canceled at the primary, middle, and high schools in Schrobenhausen, as well as at the vocational school, the special education center, and the grammar school.
19:49: Power outages occur in around 30 towns in Swabia.
Approximately 30 towns in Swabia are impacted by partial or complete power outages. This is stated by the power provider LEW. Local grid outages (low voltage) have also occurred in several streets and households. The outages seem to be most concentrated in the districts of Günzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen. "The teams are trying to restore power through alternative lines, however, given the current circumstances," says the power supplier. The duration of the individual outages depends on the situation on the ground.
In Günzburg, Germany, over 1,000 individuals have been safely relocated to gymnasiums and Legoland due to increased water levels in the Günz River. Günzburg's administrative district head, Hans Reichart, reported this to Bayerischer Rundfunk. He mentioned that evacuees have been housed in both gymnasiums and, on occasion, in Legoland. The cause of the additional evacuations was the dramatic increase in Günz River's water level over the past couple of hours.
The meteorological service in Germany has warned of further heavy rainfall, particularly in southern Germany. Meteorologists in Offenbach stated that there is a high chance of extreme rainfall, with Stuttgart possibly experiencing this on Sunday night. The areas most at risk are the Black Forest, Swabian Alb, and the Alpine foothills bordering the Bavarian Forest. On Monday morning, there could be showers in the Alpine foothills south of the Danube, and from Monday afternoon, there is a potential for heavy rainfall, with some areas experiencing up to 40 liters of rain per square meter per hour. On Monday morning, meteorologists in the Alpine foothills south of the Danube predicted showers, and from Monday afternoon, there may be heavy rainfall, with a possibility of 40 liters of rain per square meter per hour in certain areas.
Straubing's mayor, Markus Pannermayr, has declared a disaster alert due to the worsening flood situation along the Danube. The reason behind this was the extent and complexity of the requirements as well as the manpower needed. The water level in Straubing has reached over six meters. The city anticipates the disaster level to exceed four in the coming hours. The flood warning service issues four levels of warnings. At level one, there are small overflows anticipated, while at level four, built-up areas can be significantly flooded. Security measures are going well and will continue, it was reported. Several roads have already been closed due to the flood.
The partly flooded Bodenseekreis municipality of Meckenbeuren has warned against flood tourism. Tourists would hinder rescue teams and put themselves and others at risk, according to the Friedrichshafen community. "Regardless of whether it's raining less or not, Sunday strollers are asked to avoid the flood area, respect road closures, and bridges," a spokeswoman added. The Schussen river destroyed its bank and flooded streets and houses in the Kehlen and Brochenzell districts on Saturday night.
There is a warning for severe thunderstorms in the Oder-Spree district of Brandenburg. According to the German Meteorological Service (DWD), until Sunday afternoon, there is a risk of lightning strikes, uprooted trees, gusts of wind, hail, and damage to houses. Landslides and hail are also possibilities.
Due to the floods, Dachau and Kelheim have also declared a disaster alert. "Given the current situation and projections regarding water levels, the situation remains tense," Kelheim's district administrator, Martin Neumeyer, said. Dachau's district administrator, Stefan Löwl, also expressed similar views. The action was deemed necessary because the local forces could no longer handle the numerous emergency sites in the coming hours, Löwl said. Now, relief efforts can be sent to the district from elsewhere.
German railways anticipate restrictions on Monday owing to the southern Germany weather. Passengers should also be prepared for limitations on the train on Monday as a result of the weather in southern Germany. German Railways has extended its leniency rule to Monday for individuals who have purchased train tickets for travel from Sunday to this Monday and desire to postpone their journey due to weather damage. The train connection for these tickets has been cancelled, the company announced. It is still unclear how severely traffic will be affected, according to a spokeswoman. Some long-distance routes in the south have been impacted. Trains have been cancelled, including on the Munich-Nuremberg-Berlin, Stuttgart-Mannheim-Frankfurt, Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Crailsheim-Nuremberg, and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Ulm-Augsburg-Munich routes. German Railways advises against travel in regions of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg impacted by flooding.
Over 3,000 individuals in Bavaria have been affected by evacuations due to the flooding. A spokeswoman from the Bavarian Ministry of the Interior in Munich stated this. To deal with the flood situation, roughly 20,000 forces are currently in action, according to the spokeswoman. Since the start of the circumstances, it has been 40,000 forces.
A weather expert said, "I can't even imagine the damage."
The flood situation in the south of Germany is not improving anytime soon, warns meteorologist Bernd Fuchs. He expressed his concern on ntv, saying "every extra drop makes a difference." When asked about a possible connection with the climate crisis, he believes that the current situation is a "clear sign of where we're headed."
15:22: Serious electric shock injury while rescuing from floods in Freising
A 27-year-old energy company employee was seriously injured due to an electric shock while helping with the floods in the Upper Bavarian district of Freising. A police spokesperson confirmed that the incident occurred near the town hall in Allershausen. The victim was rescued by a helicopter and rushed to a hospital. It's presumed that the incident happened while working on flood-related tasks.
15:02: Navigation on the Upper Rhine called off due to high water levels
Due to heavy rainfall in southern Germany, water levels on the Upper Rhine have risen, resulting in the suspension of river navigation in some parts. Hohentwiel, a High Water Forecasting Center in Rhineland-Palatinate, has not allowed ships to sail on a section of the Upper Rhine near Karlsruhe since Saturday. The water level reached a critical shipping high-water mark II of 7.50 meters on Saturday evening, and rose to 8.20 meters by Sunday afternoon. While there was an expectation that the water levels would fall again at night, higher water levels are expected downstream in the coming days in Mannheim, Worms, and Mainz.
On the Middle and Lower Rhine, high water levels also pose a threat to shipping on this crucial waterway. At the Koblenz gauge, a level of around 6.10 meters is expected on Tuesday, after which no ships should be able to sail. Wednesday will see the highest levels in Cologne and Düsseldorf.
14:38: Autobahn A9 closed for about 50 km between Allershausen and Ingolstadt
Autobahn A9 between Allershausen and Ingolstadt is closed for about 50 km due to flooding. A spokesperson for the Upper Bavaria North police department noted that this is a new development for them. There are also power outages, affecting many people.
*15:23 p.m. Update: Autobahn GmbH reports that the section between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck is closed in both directions, and the section between Pfaffenhofen and Neufahrn junction is severely restricted. It's recommended to bypass the entire area.
There are also restrictions due to flooding on the A8 in the direction of Munich near Sulzemoos.*
13:59: Economy Minister Habeck calls for more climate protection efforts post-floods
Germany's Economy Minister, Robert Habeck, has called for stronger climate protection measures after the flood disaster in southern Germany has subsided. "The containment of CO2 emissions, which will give us enough time to adapt, should not be dismissed or suppressed," Habeck said during a visit to the flood-stricken Reichertshofen in Bavaria. He emphasized that the frequency of such events is "definitely a sign that nature and climate are changing."
13:34: Chancellor Scholz plans visit to flooded areas
Chancellor Olaf Scholz will travel to the flood-affected locations himself on Monday to get a closer look at the situation. [Source: German]
13:21: Missing firefighter after flipping over boat in Offingen
A 22-year-old firefighter is missing after a boat capsized during an evacuation operation in Offingen, located in the Landkreis Günzburg. A spokesperson for the Police Presidium Schwaben Süd-West confirmed this news. The young firefighter was alongside a fellow volunteer firefighter and three other helpers from the DLRG (German Life Saving Association) in a boat for a flood evacuation at around 02:50 am. However, the capsized boat left one firefighter unaccounted for. The unlucky victim has been extensively searched for since. Two helicopters are now also being used in the search.
13:11: No Sign of Relief: Continuous rain with storms on the horizon
Unfortunately, there is no relief in sight for the flood-affected regions in southern Germany. According to ntv meteorologist Björn Alexander, "the large and widespread continuous rain isn't going anywhere, and new local thunderstorms are developing."
Last Updated 3:23 p.m.: Autobahn GmbH reports that the section between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck is shut in both directions, while the section between Pfaffenhofen and the Neufahrn junction is heavily constrained. It's recommended to avoid this area entirely.
12:52: Rising floodwaters on the Paar bring dam break threat
Furthermore, the floodwaters on the Paar pose a potential threat of a dam break.
11:38: Crops inundated by rain trigger crop failures
More heavy rain was predicted for southern Germany today, threatening crops. German Agriculture Minister Julia Klöckner cautioned that although it has been a good year so far, the present rainstorms are threatening a total crop failure in some areas.
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In the Paar region, the danger of a dam break continues to loom. The towns of Rottmannshart, Westenhausen, Lindach, Ernsgaden, Irsching, and Knodorf in the Landkreis Pfaffenhofen have been warned by authorities. Residents are urged to move to higher floors and avoid the ground floor and basement to prevent any potential harm. Additionally, in case of emergencies, the fire department can be contacted at emergency number 112.
Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder informed that approximately 40,000 emergency personnel are currently at work to handle the flood situation across the state of Bavaria. Söder, during his visit to the Upper Bavarian district of Reichertshofen, emphasized the need for proper handling of relief operations in the upcoming hours. Fatigue and exhaustion among long-term responders can lead to errors and greater risks to life and limb, he stated.
In Straubing, the Donaupegel is rising and is expected to reach the highest alert level 4. To manage the situation, dam guards will be established from 3 pm, and fire department personnel will be posted to monitor the dam and report on water levels and any potential damage. Further sandbags are being filled.
A dam has already broken in Baar-Ebenhausen, with the surrounding communities of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching being affected. Residents are required to leave the ground floor of their homes immediately.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his appreciation and connectedness to the rescue workers and volunteers in flooded areas. He was saddened by the death of a firefighter in Pfaffenhofen, состоявшего на службе поддателям по выживанию. In Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, a firefighter died during a rescue operation in the flood area overnight.
During the Catholic Day in Erfurt, Gerhard Bätzing, chairman of the German Bishops' Conference, sent a special message to those who have been impacted by the floods. "We want to hope that human lives are preserved and protected," said Bätzing in front of the Erfurt Cathedral.
Parts of Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis are under water due to the flooding Schussen. A spokesperson for the municipality reported that around 1300 people evacuated voluntarily on Saturday to leave their homes and seek safety. Some residents opted to stay in their houses and find shelter in upper floors.
Bundeslandabgeordneter Markus Söder paid tribute to the fallen firefighter in a post on Twitter. "His dedication and commitment to his fellow human beings will always be remembered," Söder wrote. "Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with his colleagues. We mourn." A 42-year-old volunteer firefighter died when their rescue boat capsized near the towns of Affalterbach and Uttenhofen due to submerged buildings.
The Ukrainian national football team will not be able to hold its final training session at the Max-Morlock-Stadion in Nuremberg on Sunday at 6:00 pm as initially planned, as heavy rainfall has forced them to move their training to Erlangen. The wet ground made it necessary to protect the lawn in the stadium. The Ukrainian national team's match against the German national football team will take place on Monday at 8:45 pm (ARD).
Since Saturday morning, the Munich fire department has been deployed to more than 290 incidents as a result of the heavy rain. Their efforts primarily involve pumping out flooded basements and underground garages. Numerous trees have also been uprooted, and several roads have been closed. On Saturday evening, the flood warning level 2 of the Isar was exceeded.
09:24 Water surges through after dam failure in Anhausen
In Anhausen, the flood scenario is gradually subsiding post a dam giving way five kilometers off and submerging the vicinity at an alarming pace. NTV journalist Niklas Diemer divulges, "People who had to flee to this spot are now trickling back." Nonetheless, the water degree is still critical at other places.
09:08 THW expands presence in flooded areas of southern Germany
The Technical Relief Organization (THW) is increasing the number of personnel in the washed-out regions of Germany's south. Approximately 1800 folks have been dispatched, a spokeswoman says. The relief workers are securing dams, assisting with sandbag filling, and aiding evacuations in inundated zones. Concurrently, the fire brigade and other emergency services are in operation.
08:47 Slide in Baden-Württemberg obstructs train and car
The flood predicament across varied areas of Germany prompts anxiety. The southern part of the country is marred by deluges, with a 100-year flood looming in the east of Baden-Württemberg. The first responders and helpers are being stretched, faced with insurmountable challenges.
08:30 ICE to be freed from landslide in the morning
In the Baden-Württemberg town of Schwäbisch Gmünd, the landslide-ravaged ICE will be retrieved tomorrow morning. The regional train isn't able to pass this section of the track, states a spokeswoman. There's a rescue locomotive on the second track aiding the recovery process. The duration of the closure remains unknown. With the second track bypassing the stricken ICE, the regional train was able to progress at the time. On Saturday evening, two ICE coaches with 185 individuals on board veered off-track off the back of a landslide.
08:16 Person reported missing in Schrobenhausen
A person is missing in Schrobenhausen. The individual was in the basement of a home when the flood struck, reports a spokesman for the district office. As rescuers cannot presently access the home, they're unable to investigate further.
07:44 Fireman perishes in floods in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm
A firefighter in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria, has perished. He and three colleagues overturned in a rescue boat while attending to duty. They were discovered early the following morning.
07:29 Dangerous floods in Bavaria with Level 4 alerts
Level 4 floods are being measured at numerous readings in Bavaria. The focal points are in the Danube tributaries Gunz, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, Paar, Abens, Ilm, and Amper, along with the upper Danube. The peaks were attained overnight. With the wave, the emphasis rotates moving further downstream - from Swabia to Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate. Areas that may be affected include Neuburg, Kelheim, Regensburg, and Straubing, though the top wave's passage isn't anticipated till early next week. Rising water levels are speculated in Mühlried in Schrobenhausen's district and Manching and Geisenfeld in Upper Bavaria, also on Sunday.
06:54 Meteorological agency foresees more hefty rains in the south
Extensive portions of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg might see heavy downpours and severe rainfall on Sunday, says the DWD Weather Service. From noon until Monday evening, ponderous thunderstorms with torrential rain are predicted. There could be more flooded lanes and cellars. The probability of storm damage from lightning strikes also exists.
05:39 Augsburg district steps up evacuations
Evacuation calls are escalated in the Bavarian Augsburg district's washed-out regions. Anonymous must leave Kühlenthal and Allmannshofen instantly, notices the central command early in the morning. Buses have been stationed to facilitate those who can't exit the areas. In other parts of the district, evacuations were called for Saturday evening and at night. Areas along the Schmutter, a Danube tributary, are mostly afflicted.
05:05 Wiesbaden readies for ascending water levels
Authorities in Wiesbaden are preparing for rising water levels on the Rhine and Main. In Kostheim, a flood barrier has been erected, asserts the fire department early in the morning. In Rheinau, a pump has been installed. Park lots alongside the waterfront are advised to be avoided in the next few days as a precaution. There's no anticipation of additional steps being taken at present.
04:04 Train traffic between Stuttgart and Munich grounded
There's no long-distance train traffic between Stuttgart and Munich due to a landslide in Schwäbisch Gmünd. A spokesperson for the railway can't say how long the line will be shut in the early hours. The landslide has blocked the bypass between Aalen and Stuttgart, as the line between Ulm and Augsburg was already closed thanks to floods in southern Germany, causing trains to be rerouted.
In the nighttime operation, the Technical Relief Organization (THW) in Ulm is filling thousands of sandbags for the flooded and flood-threatened areas in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. Bernd Urban, head of the THW Logistics Center, said they're currently able to fill 400 sandbags an hour. Infusions of sandbags are coming from various deployment areas in the southwest and also from the neighboring federal state. Persistent rain has led to significantly increased water levels in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria at multiple locations.
The Bavarian Red Cross is sending water rescuers from Unterfranken to aid in relief efforts in Swabia. The water rescue team is expected to be deployed in the badly affected district of Günzburg, as the Red Cross reported in the evening. The water rescue teams from all of Unterfranken are specially trained for flood relief operations and have two boat and diving teams. In the Swabian district of Günzburg, several bodies of water have reached the levels of a hundred-year flood.
Two wagons of an ICE train with 185 passengers on board derailed in the Baden-Württemberg town of Schwäbisch Gmünd at night because of a landslide. The passengers are fine, and they're being evacuated from the train now. A railway spokesperson told that the first two wagons left the tracks around 11:20 p.m., but they didn't tip over. The landslide was about 30 meters wide. The ICE train passengers are supposed to stay in a nearby kindergarten and then go to Plöderhausen by bus.
A car in Schwäbisch Gmünd was hit by a landslide as well. No injuries were reported by initial police reports. The landslide happened at a spot where the affected country road and the railway line run parallel. Schwäbisch Gmünd is around 50 kilometers east of Stuttgart. Hefty rainfall in large parts of Baden-Württemberg occurred since Friday.
Neu-Ulm has managed to surpass the high water mark on the Danube and Iller. According to the city administration's estimate, the 100-year flood has been evaded. "The extent of the damage is still unknown until the situation calms down again," introduces Mayor Katrin Albsteiger in the evening. Two streets, the Danube embankments, and cycle paths along the Danube and Iller will remain closed for now.
The Munich Fire Department warned of danger at the Isar River Bank due to flooding. On top of that, two popular footpaths along the river are closed. The river is at alert level 2 in the state capital, according to the Fire Department on the X platform. Level 2 means flooding on non-built areas or traffic blockages due to high water on the roads.
The fire department and rescue services are preparing to evacuate 670 people in Schrobenhausen, Upper Bavaria. Tractors and boats are being used in the district of Muhlried and a street along the Weilach River. The authority has also set up a citizen hotline for emergencies. The village had proclaimed a disaster earlier. District Administrator Peter von der Grün emphasized that the situation is especially worrisome in the southern half of the Upper Bavarian district.
There have been many fire department interventions in Eastern Thuringia due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. The Gera control center reported it. The area around Ronneburg in the Greiz district is particularly affected. There's flooding on streets, fields, and cellars. In the Gera district, a small stream has also overflowed.
22:45 Sustained rain continues in the south, no warnings issued yet.
The German Weather Service (DWD) says there's a slight improvement in the heavy rain affecting South Germany. A DWD meteorologist explains that tonight's rain won't be as bad as last night's downpour. "We won't have the destructive rainfall we experienced last night," he says. However, more showers and thunderstorms from the north are approaching, potentially leading to more flooding on Sunday afternoon. These showers could be strong and lingering. "If they hit the already saturated ground, then there'll be more flooding," warns the meteorologist. Areas prone to flooding include the Swabian Alb, parts further north, and the regions around Augsburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Regensburg.
22:25 Disaster declared in Freising.
With overflowing rivers and streams, the Freising district in Upper Bavaria has declared a disaster. The district administration expects record-breaking water levels, particularly in the Amper and Glonn areas. They believe a major flooding event could occur in the town of Hohenkammer, as well as other Amper-side towns. Residents should get prepared for this impending crisis by emptying their cellars, for example. So far, ten Bavarian districts have declared disasters.
21:50 District Dillingen declares disaster.
Due to continuing rainfall, the Dillingen district in Bavaria also declares a disaster. The Zusam, a Danube tributary, is worsening, according to the authority. The local crisis team has requested assistance from the Bundeswehr. The experts project a 100-year flood on the small river, which could affect Buttenwiesen and Wertingen. Meanwhile, preparations are underway to release water from the swollen Danube into the Riedstrom, a former Danube overflow area. The district office is also asking farmers to secure their grazing animals in safe stables.
21:09 Eighth municipality in Bavaria declares disaster.
Neuburg-Schrobenhausen has now become the eighth Bavarian municipality to declare a disaster due to the increasing water levels in the Danube and its tributaries. The Neuburg district office reports the situation has worsened, with water levels expected to reach a record-breaking 4 at the Neuburg gauge. The Weilach, another Danube tributary, is even more concerning, already having overflowed into a residential area in Mühlried. Residents are being prepared for evacuation as Landrat Peter von der Grün reports. Southern parts of the district hold the most worry, with road, bridge, and path protection being prioritized to ensure the fire department can continue rescue operations.
20:34 Bavarian Red Cross rescues individuals from their roofs with a helicopter.
The Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) has used a helicopter to rescue two people from the roof of their Babenhausen home. The spokesman stressed that these individuals were in life-threatening situations as their house was about to collapse due to the vast water masses. Other people were also rescued with inflatable boats. In all, over 100 people, including many children, have been taken to safety.
20:13 Residents in several Augsburg-adjacent regions are asked to evacuate their homes due to the worsening flood situation.
Water rescuers had to free people from cars stuck in the water, indicating a potentially life-threatening scenario if trapped for too long. with rising water levels in vehicles. In several towns of the Landkreis Augsburg, residents are being urged to evacuate. The northern part of the district will worsen in the evening, causing concerns in Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and the entire municipality of Nordendorf. A temporary shelter has been set up at the Augsburg fairgrounds for those in need.
19:48 Bundeswehr aids in Bavarian flood-affected areas.
Bundeswehr soldiers are now helping with the flood relief in Bavaria. "The Bundeswehr is assisting the two districts of Gunzburg and Aichach-Friedberg after they submitted official requests," the Bavarian Bundeswehr command's spokeswoman tells Antenne Bayern. "In the Gunzburg area, tents and field beds are being distributed. There'll be approximately 50 Bundeswehr soldiers and troops aiding in Aichach-Friedberg within the next few hours. Additionally, two Bundeswehr trucks are in operation there."
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19:20: Interior Minister Faeser assures more assistance for flood-stricken areas of southern Germany
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser guarantees additional aid for regions struck by torrential rains and floods in southern Germany. She mentions that the THW (Technical Relief Organization) will deploy extra personnel in response. Faeser adds, "We'll continue supporting the affected states with all available forces." As of Saturday evening, over 500 THW personnel and assistants were actively aiding in rescue efforts, which included saving lives, fortifying dikes, and pumping out water. Faeser expressed gratitude to all those working to mitigate the water masses. "I want to thank everyone currently fighting the water masses and their tireless efforts to safeguard lives." She advised those in the flooded areas of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg to heed the cautionary messages and directions from authorities. "Be very attentive to these warnings!"
18:58: 29 climbers rescued at Zugspitze
Climbers stranded at the Zugspitze have been successfully retrieved. The mountain rescue service confirmed that 29 climbers had reached the Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin at the Zugspitzplatt. Members of various groups sent for help due to unfavorable weather and fresh snow at about 2,500 meters above sea level, approximately 900 meters before the Sonnalpin. The mountain rescue service promptly started heading to the scene. Employees from Zugspitzbahn were also en route using snow groomers to locate the mountaineers.
18:42: Severe storm warning issued for parts of Brandenburg
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) issued a warning for Brandenburg, Germany, concerning the risks posed by strong thunderstorms. The second-highest alert level was set for the districts of Dahme-Spreewald, Märkisch-Oderland, and Oder-Spree until evening. Potential hazards include lightning strikes, uprooted trees or high-voltage power lines, falling objects, rapid road flooding, landslides, and hail.
18:11: Part of A3 Motorway in Bavaria closed due to flooding
The A3 motorway in Bavaria near Regensburg has been closed for about 10 kilometers in both directions between the Parsberg and Beratzhausen exits due to flooding. The road is underwater, according to the police department in the Upper Palatinate. "The water is pressing from the fields onto the motorway," says a spokesperson. Emergency services, the fire department, and police were onsite to manage the situation. The motorway administration, traffic police Regensburg, and other authorities are present to divert traffic, reports a spokesperson.
17:51: Prison in Memmingen evacuated
The prison in Memmingen, Bavaria, is being evacuated due to imminent flooding. Up to 150 inmates will be temporarily relocated to Landsberg, Kempten, and Augsburg, as per the news agency Nonstopnews. Floodwaters were encroaching on the facility, potentially resulting in a power outage. To avoid such complications, prison management initiated the evacuation. Police arrived with numerous emergency vehicles to facilitate the evacuation. The road was already flooded, so evacuees had to make their way through the water to leave the premises. The fire department was active with pumps to remove water from the institution.
17:35: Rain leads to water levels rising to level 4
Persistent heavy rain is causing water levels to rise to level 4 at various locations in Swabia. The rivers in Lower Bavaria and the Upper Palatinate are becoming increasingly swollen. The HND's (Hochwasserndienst; Flooding Service) Neu-Ulm, Bad Held (Danube), Hasberg (Mindel), Fleinhausen (Zusam), Fischach (Schmutter), and Regen in Cham gauges all surpassed level 4. Hundred-year flooding is reported in Nattenhausen (Günz) and Dasing (Paar). The Pegel Wiblingen (Iller) was projected to reach peak Meldestufe 3 (Flood Stage 3) from Saturday to Sunday, with water levels predicted to fall below Meldestufe 3 in the lower Iller. Meldestufen 1 and 2 (Flood Stage 1 and 2) are expected in Northern Danube tributaries like Wöhritz, Sulzach, Altmuhl, Schwarze Laber, and Naab, with an increasing trend. In the stretch between Neu-Ulm and Kelheim, water levels are predicted to rise to Meldestufe 3 several times that day, including at places like Günzburg, Donauwörth, and Neuburg. The Pegel Kelheim is set to follow at night. Meldestufen 1 and 2 are anticipated in the rest of the Danube section towards Passau.
17:23 Airport operations in Munich continue normally
Despite the heavy rain in various parts of Bavaria, Munich Airport's operations continue without interruption. No flights have been canceled yet. Airport representative Robert Wilhelm explained to BR that "there's water standing in the fields next to the runways." The airport is constructed slightly higher, and the runways slant towards the sides, speeding up water runoff. Additionally, the runway is "grooved," which means it has grooves that hasten water flow. Consequently, there's no fear of hydroplaning, as confirmed by Wilhelm on the Bavarian broadcaster. The airport anticipates no significant challenges for the rest of the weekend.
17:07 Söder comments on the situation in Swabia
Minister President Markus Söder toured the affected Swabia area, appreciating the efforts of helpers and officials. While visiting Diedorf, part of the Augsburg district, he affirmed that Bavaria is prepared for crises. The situation is severely straining the public, according to Söder, who also warned, "This isn't over yet. Things are really ramping up." Resources such as sandbags are mobilized in Swabia. He commended rescuers like the fire department, Bavarian Red Cross, police, and Technical Relief Organization for their exemplary dedication to helping others. To residents, he urged compliance with evacuation orders and to not attempt to drive out of garages or leave cellars.
16:35 DB halts train operations in Southern Germany
The extreme weather conditions in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria have inflicted consequences on rail transportation. Deutsche Bahn states that Southern Germany has train suspensions and cancellations. Two prominent ICE lines are notably impacted, as confirmed by a spokesperson. The route between Munich, Bregenz, and Zurich won't have trains running all day on Saturday owing to the flooding. The path linking Ulm and Augsburg is also affected. Additional details, including track closures, cancellations, and delays, are available on the Bahn website.
16:12 Babenhausen diverts disaster efforts
The Unterallgäu region, also in Bavaria, now has a disaster situation. Communication has been disrupted in Babenhausen, with parts of the mobile phone network defective. Individuals needing immediate help who can't dial emergency numbers are instructed to hang a white sheet or cloth outside their windows. The district administration confirmed that people are being evacuated from their homes using inflatable boats.
15:57 THW deploys 400 staff in South Germany
The storms in South Germany have occasioned 400 members of the Technical Relief Organization (THW) to intervene. The THW in Bonn reported their presence. They are unclogging drains, securing dams, and evacuating people in a precautionary manner. The THW is prepared to deploy more members if needed. In affected regions, mobile flood gauges will be installed and monitored. "Since the weather predictions point to more rain and flooding in the coming hours, the THW is prepared to deploy additional THW forces," they stated. They maintain preparedness nationwide. Each relief group consists of roughly 40 THW personnel who manage three sewage pumps, a generator, an exploration vehicle, and a command post. Each relief group can drain 30,000 liters of water per minute.
15:37 Full map of flood warnings
This map displays all the current flood alerts. The map is updated regularly.
15:15 Twenty-six-member mountain-climbing group stuck below Zugspitze
A 26-person climbing group is reportedly stranded several hundred meters beneath Zugspitze's peak. As relayed by BR, more than 60 centimeters of snow have accumulated on the Zugspitze in previous hours. Continuous rain complicates visibility, now limited to roughly 100 meters. Several rescue teams are currently searching for the group in the blizzard, as reported by BR, citing Garmisch-Partenkirchen Mountain Rescue Service. The climbers seem fatigued and might be ill-equipped for the cold conditions. It's unclear why they pursued scaling Zugspitze amidst the adverse weather warnings.
14:52 Donau-Ries District adopts disaster situation mode
The Donau-Ries District in Bavaria has opted for a disaster situation. This measure assists in convening various forces to deal better with anticipated water levels. "It's essential to remain calm and avoid low-lying areas at this time," according to District Administrative Officer Stefan Roßle.
A leak in a dike and a dam has caused chaos in the Swabian district of Augsburg. The local administration has issued a warning to residents in particular streets of the town of Diedorf. They must immediately evacuate their homes. The Anhausen district of Diedorf is preparing for evacuation, reports the administration of Augsburg. "Moving to higher floors is no longer enough," they add. A dam has burst in Burgwalden, and a dike near Anhauser Weiher has failed. All residents in these areas are advised to leave their homes within the next hour and head to the Diedorf Schmuttertalhalle. Authorities also urge people to avoid railway underpasses, as water could flood these areas. This situation poses a risk to life.
Soeder and Herrmann visit the flood-hit region
Bavarian Minister President Markus Soeder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann are set to visit the flood-affected area in the Swabian district of Augsburg on Saturday. They aim to assess the situation in Diedorf personally, the Interior Ministry revealed. District Administrator Martin Sailer will join them. The decision to visit Diedorf was a last-minute one, as the original plan was to check the flood situation in Fischach. With the increased crisis in Diedorf, the authorities prioritized this location. Evacuations are currently being organized in Diedorf, as the situation in the Swabian district is particularly bad due to the heavy rainfall. The districts of Augsburg and Aichach-Friedberg have recently declared a disaster situation.
The flood situation in Meckenbeuren continues to worsen. The water level in Meckenbeuren, Bodenseekreis's Schussen river, has risen further. A municipality spokesperson shared that the level reached 4.72 meters in the afternoon. The authorities think the peak will occur shortly. During the last flood in 2021, the river reached 4.50 meters. Normally, it only carries 45 centimeters of water. On Friday night, around 1300 people were advised to leave their homes as a preventive measure. Many went to stay with friends or family, leaving a small number to make use of emergency accommodation. To avert any potential damage, schools, kindergartens, and community halls were cleared out beforehand. In the town with a population of 14,000, bridges were also closed.
