06:50: Rescue crews worry about impending dam rupture in Manching
Informal narrative:
The Control Center in Ingolstadt has issued a warning about a possible dam break in Manching, Pfaffenhofen. Citizens are advised to stay on upper floors and avoid basements and underground parking lots. A dam recently broke in Baar-Ebenhausen over the weekend.
6:16 Evacuations due to flooding in Uhingen
Due to the flooding in Filstal, people have been forced out of homes in Uhingen, south of Stuttgart. According to a police spokesperson, no one has been hurt yet. The small town of Uhingen, near Ebersbach on the Fils, has many residents at risk. The Göppingen district administration described the situation as extremely critical. The flood has impacted a residential area.
An extraordinary emergency situation has been declared, as reported by the Göppingen district administration.
5:33 Evacuations in Ostalbkreis because of flooding
The flooding situation is also worsening in the Ostalbkreis region of Baden-Württemberg. Residents from parts of Leinzell, Heuchlingen, and Göggingen were evacuated through Sunday night into early Monday due to potential flooding. The entire community of Täferrot is being evacuated, a spokeswoman for the crisis staff reported. The first floods had reached the town by early morning. Over 250 to 300 people were relocated to sheltered locations.
5:13 Emergency Personnel Sent from Baden-Württemberg to Günzburg
As a response to the ongoing flooding situation, Baden-Württemberg has sent emergency teams to help out in the Günzburg district of Bavaria. At the request of the State of Bavaria, three "Sanitation and Care" units have been deployed to the region, according to the Baden-Württemberg Interior Ministry. These teams are going to provide care and support to those who have had to leave their homes and apartments as a result of the rising waters. Additionally, a water rescue unit from Ulm was called in to aid the evacuation process in Günzburg.
4:30 Esslingen builds temporary dam to prevent flooding
The city of Esslingen am Neckar is constructing a makeshift dam in order to prevent flooding in the city center. The peak anticipated to strike early on Monday, and the canals in the inner city area could be flooded as a result. The city reports around 1500 tons of stone and sand have been piled up along a channel at the Water House. Traffic disruptions are expected near the construction site. Vehicles have been advised to steer clear of certain spots. The city had already recommended against entering basements and underground parking garages in the inner city and in Oberesslingen amidst the susceptible flood situation.
3:26 Ebersbach an der Fils prepares selected residents for evacuation
The severely flooded community of Ebersbach an der Fils, south of Stuttgart, has prepped certain residents of specific streets for evacuations. The citizens should gather crucial papers and essential items to spend the night away from their homes, the city stated early on Monday via Facebook. It is crucial to remain hidden in the top levels of structures. "The Ebersbach fire station is on its way to the residents," they commented.
3:11 Flood warnings revoked - though heavy rain possible
The German Weather Service (DWD) has withdrawn all severe thunderstorm warnings with heavy rain for Germany. However, small-scale thunderstorms with the potential for heavy rain will persist in the southern parts of the country, the DWD declared. Starting at noon, southern regions near the Danube and around the Bavarian Forest will experience the storms.
2:04 Flood tourists create obstacles for emergency workers
The influx of flood tourists has caused issues for first responders in the Augsburg district. Rescue crews have had their resources stretched by indecisive individuals who disregarded the flood warnings and ventured towards dams, underpasses, and into or near the water. The district administration urges people to avoid these areas so that rescue efforts can be better managed. "Flood waves can catch you off guard and the bank can crumble," the authority cautions.
1:14 Kretschmann and Strobl visit flood-affected places
Baden-Württemberg's Minister President Winfried Kretschmann and Interior Minister Thomas Strobl will tour two flood-stricken regions in the state on Monday. They are slated to first visit Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis, followed by a stop in Erbach in the Alb-Donau-Kreis, according to a member of the government press office. Kretschmann had opted against a trip to ground zero on Sunday for safety reasons. "I personally chose not to picture the situation on-site when it's at its most crucial point. Every available hand and every sandbag makes a difference," he remarked Sunday afternoon. Rescue teams are currently stretched to their limits; he emphasized.
23:50 Ebersbach an der Fils declares citywide alarm - noise barrier breachedIn the city of Ebersbach an der Fils, located near Stuttgart, a severe alarm has been sounded due to the flood. This means that all firefighters are now on the job. At the federal highway 10, water masses have broken through a noise barrier and flooded the road, as depicted in a video shared by the city on their Facebook page. The local authorities have issued a grave warning: "Please remain at home and avoid going to emergency sites. There's a partial risk to life, as demonstrated in the video." Residents are advised not to go down to their basements and to stay on the upper floors.
23:16 48-year-old missing person found perished in basementAs per Bayerischer Rundfunk, the South German storm has brought about another fatality. A 43-year-old missing individual was discovered deceased in a basement.
22:16 Signal box struck by lightning - regional rail disrupted around DresdenDue to a malfunction of a signal box caused by a lightning strike, rail traffic in the Dresden area was thrown into disarray in the evening. The regional rail connecting Dresden to Bautzen and Görlitz was most severely impacted, according to a railway spokeswoman. The signal box in Radeberg, east of the state capital, was damaged by a lightning strike at 5:10 p.m. It was eventually repaired in the evening. After approximately two hours, the trains were running as normal, the spokeswoman added.
22:00 Nursing home in Lauingen evacuatedA nursing home close to the Danube in Lauingen is being emptied due to the flood. The city seeks to provide continuous care for residents, their website states. The individuals could all be accommodated at an educational center.
21:30 Dam failure: Areas between the Danube and Schmutter are evacuatedA number of settlements near the Danube and the Schmutter in the Donau-Ries region of Swabia must be evacuated. The reason given by the Donauwörth district administration is a massive dam failure. Included in this list are places like Auchsesheim, Heißesheim, Nordheim, Mertingen, Asbach-Bäumenheim, and Urfahrhof. The authorities request that the public remain calm, pack their belongings, and follow the directions of emergency services. In addition, emergency shelters are being organized.
21:03 Faeser also travels to the Bavarian flood zoneFollowing the flooding of additional regions in South Germany, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser are set to visit the Bavarian flood area on Monday. They intend to gather information on the situation in collaboration with Bavaria's Minister President Markus Söder and State Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann in Reichertshofen, a town in Upper Bavaria's Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm district. The head of the Technical Relief Service, Sabine Lackner, will also be present at this meeting.
20:30 Many schools in Bavaria closed on Monday owing to the flooding. 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. On Monday, for instance, all primary, middle, and high schools in Aichach-Friedberg, as well as local grammar, vocational, and profession schools, and special education centers, will be indefinitely closed. In Wertingen, Dillingen district, all schools will be shuttered. Additionally, some schools in the Pfaffenhofen district will not operate on Monday. Per the Pfaffenhofen district administration, some kindergartens will also remain closed on Monday and Tuesday.
19:49 Power outages in roughly 30 cities in SwabiaApproximately 30 cities in Swabia are dealing with power outages. This information comes from power grid operator LEW. There are also outages within local power grids, affecting individual streets and homes. The outages appear to be largely confined to the Günzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen districts. "Emergency workers are working to restore power supply by connecting to other lines, if possible," LEW noted. The duration of the outages depends on the onsite circumstances.
5:11 PM: Over a thousand individuals in Gunzburg safely evacuated
People in the German town of Gunzburg are being taken to halls and Legoland for their safety, according to reports from Gunzburg's district administrator, Hans Reichart, to Bayerischer Rundfunk. This evacuation is due to the increased water level of the Guenz River.
4:42 PM: DWD issues warning for more heavy rain in Southern Germany
The German Weather Service (DWD) warns of significant rainfall, particularly in the southern part of Germany. Authorities predict heavy rainfall in Stuttgart during the early hours of Sunday evening. Additionally, there might be heavy rain in the Black Forest, the Swabian Alb, and the Alpine foothills south of the Danube on Monday morning. The intensity might increase gradually, leading to thunderstorms in the Bavarian Forest later. The risk of heavy downpours, potentially up to 40 liters per square meter per hour, remains.
4:07 PM: Disaster declared in Straubing
Due to the deteriorating flood situation along the Danube, Straubing's mayor, Markus Pannermayr, has announced a disaster. This is attributed to the magnitude of the demands and the required manpower. The water level in Straubing is higher than six meters, and the city is expected to breach Level 4, which indicates flooding of large areas.
3:34 PM: Bodenseekreis community warns against flood tourism
The partly flooded Bodenseekreis community of Meckenbeuren urges caution against visiting the flood area for sightseeing purposes. Doing so would hinder emergency services and pose potential danger to visitors and those around them. The Schussen River crossed its bank on Saturday evening, submerging roads and houses in Kehlen and Brochenzell.
3:11 PM: Severe thunderstorms imminent in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree district
The DWD has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree district. Until Sunday afternoon, there is a potential for lightning strikes, uprooted trees, strong winds, or falling debris. These events could also damage homes, cause landslides, and hail.
2:53 PM: Disaster declared in two more districts
Due to the flood, the districts of Dachau and Kelheim have likewise declared a state of emergency. Kelheim's district administrator, Martin Neumeyer, emphasizes the extent of the situation and the need for coordinated and equipped relief efforts. Dachau's district administrator, Stefan Löwl, shares this sentiment, highlighting that local authorities are unable to manage the situation independently in the coming hours, necessitating outside relief efforts.
2:25 PM: German railways anticipate restrictions on Monday
German Railways is informing passengers to prepare for potential restrictions on Monday due to weather conditions in southern Germany. The company is implementing a more lenient policy that allows holders of tickets from Sunday to Monday to travel at a later date. Expected disruptions include cancellations on the Munich-Nuremberg-Berlin, Stuttgart-Mannheim-Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Crailsheim-Nuremberg and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Ulm-Augsburg-Munich routes.
2:08 PM: Over 3,000 individuals evacuated in Bavaria
In Bavaria, more than three thousand people have been influenced by evacuations from flood-prone regions. This information was shared by a spokeswoman for the Bavarian Interior Ministry in Munich. Presently, 20,000 emergency personnel are in action across the region. Since the start of the flooding, the number of responders has reached a total of 40,000.
2:00 PM: Expert: "The damage cannot be fathomed"
According to Bernd Fuchs, the flooding in the southern region isn't likely to improve anytime soon. He stated, "Every drop is a burden." Asked about potential links to climate change, he sees the current situation as "a clear sign of where we're heading."
15:22: Serious Electric Shock Injures Man While Working in Floods
A 27-year-old man employed by an energy company in Freising, Upper Bavaria, has sustained serious injuries from an electric shock while working in flood-stricken areas near the town hall in Allershausen. According to a spokesperson from Upper Bavarian Police Headquarters, he was airlifted to a hospital by rescue helicopter. The incident is believed to be related to the flood situation.
15:02: Transport Interrupted on the Upper Rhine
Heavy rainfall in Southern Germany has raised water levels along the Rhine, partially halting shipping. According to the Rhine High Water Forecast Center Rhineland-Palatinate, no ships have been permitted to sail on a portion of the Upper Rhine near Karlsruhe since Saturday. In Maximiliansau, the water level reached the second highest shipping high water mark of 7.50 meters on Saturday night. By Sunday afternoon, it had risen to 8.20 meters, but was anticipated to drop by Monday evening. Yet, further water level increases are predicted downstream - in Mannheim, Worms, and Mainz. Both the Middle and Lower Rhine are also predicted to face high water levels in the imminent future, potentially endangering shipping on this crucial waterway. The Koblenz gauge is anticipated to reach around 6.10 meters on Tuesday, at which point no shipping should be permitted, and the highest levels are expected in Cologne and Düsseldorf on Wednesday.
14:38: Autobahn A9: 50-Kilometer Section Closed
The Autobahn A9 has been shut down for approximately 50 kilometers in the Pfaffenhofen district due to a dam break. A spokesperson from Upper Bavaria North police department reported that the area between Allershausen and Ingolstadt is impacted, with parts of the road flooded. This is a new circumstance for the policing authority in this region. There are also power outages. Numerous individuals have been impacted. Efforts are underway to address the issue. Pfaffenhofen district authorities have requested that residents living in territories such as Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching relocate from the ground floor of their residences to higher floors.
Update 15:23 p.m.: Per the Autobahn GmbH, the section between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck is closed in both directions. The section between Pfaffenhofen and the Autobahn intersection Neufahrn is significantly restricted. It is recommended to bypass the area entirely. Additionally, parts of the A8 in the direction of Munich in the Sulzemoos region are obstructed due to flooding.
13:59: Economy Minister Habeck: Fighting Climate Change Needs Priority
Economy Minister Robert Habeck has used the flood disaster in Southern Germany to revive the significance of climate change. He urged for greater commitments towards climate protection, stating, "The reduction of CO2 emissions, so we have enough time to adapt, should not be dismissed or de-prioritized, but must be our top priority." The increased frequency of natural disasters demonstrates that "nature and climate are changing." Previously, century-wide floods occurred "every few years."
13:34: Chancellor Scholz Visits Flood-affected Areas on Monday
Chancellor Olaf Scholz intends to visit the flood-stricken regions on Monday to gain a firsthand understanding of the situation.
13:21: Tragedy in Offingen: Firefighter Missing After Flood Operation
A 22-year-old firefighter has gone missing following a flood evacuation operation in Offingen, Landkreis Günzburg. A spokesman for the Police Presidium Schwaben Süd-West reported that the man was with a fellow firefighter and three DLRG assistants in a boat for the evacuation when the vessel capsized at approximately 2:50 a.m. Four of the assistants were successfully recovered, but the youth is still missing. He has been actively searched for since early morning. Two helicopters are now also deployed for his rescue. A 42-year-old firefighter has already died as a result of a flood operation.
13:11: No Break in Weather: Rapid Continuous Rain Continues
The first week of this disaster relief campaign brings no reprieve to the flood-stricken areas in southern Germany. Björn Alexander, a ntv meteorologist, observed, "The widespread, uninterrupted rain is still present, although new and local thunderstorms are developing."
12:52: No Respite: The Torrential Rain Shows No Signs of Abating
The torrential downpour in the flood-stricken areas of southern Germany presents no signs of reducing. Meteorologist Björn Alexander noted, "The all-encompassing uninterrupted rain is still a factor, and there are even fresh storm centers emerging."
In the Paar area, there is a potential danger of a dam collapse. This may affect the communities of Rottmannshart, Westenhausen, Lindach, Ernsgaden, Irsching, and Knodorf in the Landkreis Pfaffenhofen. Authorities advise residents to quickly move to higher floors, avoiding the ground level and basement. In case of urgent situations, the fire department should be contacted on the emergency number 112.
Minister President Markus Söder in Bavaria tells that around 40,000 emergency personnel are currently operational for flood mitigation across the state. Söder, during his visit to Oberbayern's Reichertshofen, emphasized the importance of efficiently managing relief shifts in the upcoming hours. He stated that those who have been working for a long time need to be replaced, as prolonged service without a break can potentially lead to mistakes and fatigue, increasing the risk to life and limb.
Straubing is experiencing a rising Donaupegel, which is expected to reach an alert level four soon, according to the Hochwassernachrichtendienst Bayern. The city has announced setting up dam guards from 3 PM. Firefighters will be onsite to monitor the dam and record water levels and any potential damage. Furthermore, additional sandbags are being filled.
There was a dam break in Baar-Ebenhausen within the Landkreis Pfaffenhofen. This has put the communities of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching at risk. Residents have been asked to immediately leave their ground floors.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz offers his respect and appreciation to the rescuers and helpers in flood-affected areas. "The death of a firefighter in Pfaffenhofen has deeply affected me," Scholz says in his post on X. "My thoughts are with his companions." A firefighter died while performing a rescue operation in Pfaffenhofen, a part of Bavaria.
During the Catholic Day's closing mass in Erfurt, Bishop Georg Bätzing sends a message of hope to those impacted by the floods. "We hope that human lives remain preserved and protected," Bätzing tells the crowds at the Erfurt Cathedral.
Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis has floodwaters surrounding the districts of Kehlen and Brochenzell. An official from the municipality reports that the Schussen has overflowed, submerging the streets. About 1300 people voluntarily left their homes on Saturday and found safety elsewhere. While some residents remained in their houses and sought safety on the upper floors, the water level of the Schussen rose to more than 4.86 meters on Saturday night. Since then, it has been receding. Normally, the Schussen is only 45 centimeters deep in these districts.
Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder offers a tribute to the fallen firefighter in an entry on his profile. "His devotion and commitment to his fellow human beings will never be forgotten," Söder writes. "Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his colleagues. We all grieve." Police reported that the 42-year-old volunteer firefighter died when his rescue boat capsized near the towns of Affalterbach and Uttenhofen due to flooding.
The Ukrainian national football team must relocate its final training session before their EM test match against the German team. It was initially planned for 6:00 PM Sunday at the Max-Morlock-Stadion in Nuremberg. However, due to the heavy rainfall, the team will train in Erlangen instead to protect the stadium's lawn. The Ukrainian team spokesperson confirms this change. Ukraine will play against Germany on Monday (8:45 PM / ARD) in Nuremberg.
The Munich region has experienced hours of heavy rainfall. Since Saturday morning at 6 am, the fire department has responded to over 290 incidents, as per the Munich fire department. Firefighters are primarily manually pumping out flooded basements and underground garages. Additionally, numerous trees have toppled due to the very moist soil, and roads have been closed. On Saturday night, the flood warning level 2 of the Isar was surpassed.
9:24 Flooding subsides after dam break in Anhausen
The flooding in Anhausen is gradually abating after a 5-kilometer dam ruptured and swamped the area quickly. According to ntv reporter Niklas Diemer, residents who had been evacuated there are cautiously returning. Nevertheless, water levels remain critical in other areas.
9:08 THW Send More Personnel to Flooded Areas in Southern Germany
The Technical Relief Organization (THW) is dispatching even more personnel to the flooded areas in Southern Germany. With over 1800 people on the job, they're prioritizing dam maintenance, aiding in sandbagging efforts, and assisting in evacuating residents in submerged locations. In addition to the THW, the fire department and other emergency services are also on standby.
8:47 Landslide in Baden-Württemberg Stalls Train and Car
The flooding emergency persists in various parts of Germany, particularly in Southern Germany. In eastern Baden-Württemberg, there's even a danger of a once-in-a-century flood. The rescue teams and volunteers are nearly reaching their limits.
8:30 ICE Train will be extracted from landslide in the morning
The landslide in Baden-Württemberg has dislodged an ICE train. The affected section of the track is not accessible to regional trains, according to a spokesperson for the railway. A nearby rescue locomotive is preparing to aid in recovering the ICE. The duration of the blockage is undetermined. Meanwhile, regional trains have successfully bypassed the ICE. On Saturday evening, two ICE carriages, carrying 185 passengers, derailed following an earthquake.
8:16 Missing Person in Schrobenhausen
In Schrobenhausen, a person is unaccounted for. Apparently, the individual was below ground in a house basement during the flood. The basement and sections of the upper floor are now submerged in water, according to a district office spokesperson. Rescue teams are currently unable to approach the residence.
7:44 Firefighter dies in the floods in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria
A firefighter perishes in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria. He and his three colleagues drowned when their rescue boat overturned during a rescue operation, reports a district administration spokesperson.
7:29 Highest flood warning level 4 persists in Bavaria
Flood warnings of the highest level 4 endure in several gauges across Bavaria. The focus remains on the southern Donau tributaries of Günz, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, Paar, Abens, Ilm, and Amper, as well as the upper Danube. The peak levels were reached overnight. As the flood moves downstream, the regions of attention shift from Swabia towards Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate. Potential impacted areas include Neuburg, Kelheim, Regensburg, Straubing. The flood peak is predicted to reach these locations early in the week. In particular, rising water levels are anticipated in Mühldorf in the Schrobenhausen district and in Manching and Geisenfeld in Upper Bavaria, as well as in Abensberg in the Kelheim district on Sunday.
6:54 Weather Service forecasts further heavy rain in the south
Heavy thunderstorms with copious rainfall are predicted by the German Weather Service (DWD) for much of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg on Sunday. According to DWD's morning forecast, these storms are expected between noon and Monday night. Additional flooding on streets and cellars may occur. There is also a potential for lightning-inflicted damage.
5:39 Expanded evacuation requests in Augsburg region
Following the flooded regions of the district of Augsburg, officials are extending evacuation recommendations. Anonymous must immediately evacuate from the communities of Kühlenthal and Allmannshofen, warns the integrated control center. Buses are being provided for those unable to leave the areas independently. On Saturday evening and night, individuals were also urged to leave their homes and apartments in other areas of the district. Those at risk primarily live by the Schmutter river, a Danube tributary. The district of Augsburg is enacting these measures.
At 5:05 AM, authorities in Wiesbaden are responding to rising water levels on the Rhine and Main by constructing a flood protection wall in Kostheim and installing a pump in the Rhine-facing district of Schierstein. Parking lots near the river are advised against for the coming days. There are no further anticipated measures at this time.
Around 4:04 AM, a landslide in the Baden-Württemberg town of Schwäbisch Gmünd has halted long-distance train traffic between Stuttgart and Munich. The train spokesperson couldn't provide an estimate as to when the line would reopen. This landslide adds to the already blocked line between Ulm and Augsburg, forcing long-distance trains to be re-routed.
In the early morning hours of 3:13 AM, the Technical Relief Organization (THW) in Ulm was filling 30,000 sandbags for flooded and flood-threatened areas in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. THW's head of Logistics Center, Bernd Urban, confirmed overnight delivery, with 400 sandbags being filled per hour at this point. A plethora of requests have come from all over the southwestern region and surrounding states due to the persistent rain. This has resulted in hiked up water levels in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria at various locations.
The Bavarian Red Cross is deploying water rescuers from Unterfranken to aid in relief efforts in Swabia, identified as the most affected district of Günzburg. These individuals are specially trained for flood rescues, with 2 boat and diving teams. With water levels reaching a hundred-year flood status, there's a high necessity for such teams.
At 2:25 AM, two wagons of a train in Schwäbisch Gmünd with 185 passengers on board derailed due to a landslide--though fortunately, all remained unscathed. These wagons have yet to tip over. The landslide featured a 30-meter width. Train passengers will temporarily relocate to a nearby kindergarten before being taken to Plüderhausen via bus.
At 1:27 AM, a vehicle in Schwäbisch Gmünd found itself a casualty to a landslide. Initial reports from the police suggest the driver emerged unscathed. The landslide occurred where the road and the railway run parallel. Located around 50 km east of Stuttgart, Schwäbisch Gmünd has experienced heavy rain since Friday.
By 00:59 AM, the city of Neu-Ulm has surpassed the high water mark expected during a 100-year flood--thus, the worst-case scenario was averted. The degree of damage, however, is still to be determined after the situation regains stability, as expressed by Mayor Katrin Albsteiger in the evening. Two streets, the Donau promenades, and the cyclepaths along the Danube-Iller are temporarily shut down.
At 00:14 AM, the Munich Fire Department has issued a warning about dangers on the Isar Riverbank due to flooding. They have also temporarily closed two popular walking paths alongside the river. The river has reached alert level 2, signifying flooding on unconstructed areas or traffic disruptions due to the river's rising water level.
At 23:44 PM the previous day, the Munich Fire Department issued a warning over potential risks on the Isar Riverbank caused by flooding. Furthermore, two popular walking paths around the river were closed by the city administration. The river attained alert level 2, indicating flooding on unconstructed areas and/or traffic interruptions brought on by high water levels.
Firefighters and rescue teams are readying to evacuate 670 residents in Schrobenhausen, Upper Bavaria. Tractors and boats are already being used in the Mühldorf neighborhood and a street adjacent to the Weilach River. The district government has established a help hotline for emergencies. The situation is of concern in the southern section of Upper Bavarian district, according to District Administrator Peter von der Grün.
23:03 Multiple firefighting interventions in Eastern Thuringia
Heavy rain and thunderstorms are causing numerous firefighting interventions in Eastern Thuringia. The dispatch center in Gera confirms this. The area around Ronneburg in the Greiz district is severely hit. There are flooded streets, fields, and flooded cellars. In the Gera district, a small creek has also overflowed.
22:45 Continuous rain in the south - no alert issued yet
As per the German Weather Service (DWD), there's a slight decrease in the rainfall in the southern parts of Germany. A DWD meteorologist says, "We won't have the massive rainfall we had last night." However, new showers and thunderstorms are approaching from the north, which could cause local flooding again on Sunday afternoon. These showers might be quite strong and may take longer to subside. "If they hit the already saturated ground, there'll be flooding again," says the meteorologist. Vulnerable regions include the Swabian Alb, areas around it, and spots near Augsburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Regensburg.
22:25 Disaster emergency in Freising as well
The Freising district has declared a disaster emergency due to overflowing rivers and creeks. The administration in the Upper Bavarian municipality highlighted this in the evening. The Amper and Glonn rivers are in danger of reaching record-breaking water levels, as warned by the district administration. The authorities fear a massive flooding in Hohenkammer, as well as in other locations along the Amper. While advising citizens to prepare for such an extreme situation, they're asked to, for instance, also clear their cellars. A total of ten Bavarian districts have now declared a disaster emergency.
21:50 District Dillingen announces a state of disaster
Due to constant rainfall, the district administration in Dillingen, situated in the Bavarian part of Swabia, has declared a state of disaster. The status of the Zusam, a tributary that flows into the Danube, has become more critical in the evening, as per the administration report. The local crisis team has requested assistance from the Bundeswehr. Experts predict a 100-year flooding on this small river, which could affect the adjacent towns of Buttenwiesen and Wertingen. Meanwhile, authorities are preparing to release water from the swollen Danube into the Riedstrom, once the natural floodplain of the river. The district administration urges local farmers to keep their livestock in secure barns.
21:09 Eighth municipality in Bavaria declares a state of disaster
The Landkreis Neuburg-Schrobenhausen has declared a state of disaster owing to the swelling Danube and its tributaries. The district administration in the Upper Bavarian municipality states this. The Water Management Office Ingolstadt anticipates a level 4 at the Neuburg gauge for the night. The situation is more threatening at the Paar, which is one of the Danube's tributaries, and at the Weilach, flowing into the Paar. In the Schrobenhausen district of Mühldorf, the Weilach has already overflowed and flooded a residential area. Emergency services are preparing to evacuate residents, according to Landrat Peter von der Grün. The intensity of the situation is remarkable, particularly in the southern region of the district. Von der Grün points out, "Protecting roads, bridges, and paths is essential; this allows firefighters to keep conducting rescue missions."
20:34 Red Cross of Bavaria rescues individuals on their roofs with a helicopter
The Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) has extracted two people from the roof of their house in Babenhausen using a helicopter. As per a BRK representative, the individuals were in serious danger. The house in the Unterallgäu district was at peril due to the substantial water masses. Furthermore, other individuals were rescued from their homes using inflatable boats. The rescue teams saved more than 100 people - including plenty of children.
20:13 People are being asked to leave homes in several Augsburg municipalities
Water rescuers had to extract people from their cars, who couldn't open their doors due to the water masses. The speech continues, pointing out that the situation might become life-threatening due to the strong and growing water in the vehicle.
In several Swabian municipalities, people are requested to evacuate their homes due to the critical flood situation. The emerging problem might worsen in the evening for the northern portion of the district, the Augsburg district administration reports. Areas like Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and the entire municipality of Nordendorf are affected. The Swabian interim government has put together a temporary shelter at the Augsburg trade fair grounds.
German soldiers have been sent to support the flood-hit districts of Günzburg and Aichach-Friedberg in Bavaria after both areas requested assistance. According to a spokesperson from the Bavaria Command at the Bundeswehr, troops are distributing blankets and field beds around Günzburg, while approximately 50 soldiers and civilian helpers are expected to arrive in Aichach-Friedberg in the coming hours. In addition, two military trucks have been deployed in the latter region.
Meanwhile, Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has pledged further support to the affected regions in southern Germany. "As a result of the heavy, continuous rainfall and the impending floods, we are prepared to mobilize additional THW forces across the nation," she said in Berlin. The SPD politician was referring to the Technical Relief Organization, adding that the government would continue to support the affected federal states with all their resources. Faeser confirmed that 520 THW personnel and helpers had been deployed by Saturday evening, with many people having been rescued, dikes secured, and water being pumped out. She thanked the emergency workers for their tireless efforts to save lives in the flood-stricken areas of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Faeser urged residents to pay close attention to the advice and instructions of local authorities.
Elsewhere, climbers stranded at the Zugspitze were rescued, with 29 people being transported to the Sonnalpin restaurant at Zugspitzplatt by the Mountain Rescue Service. These individuals had made distress calls after finding themselves unable to continue, about 900 meters away from their destination at an altitude of around 2500 meters, due to poor weather conditions and new snowfall. The Mountain Rescue Service and Zugspitzbahn employees were dispatched to assist with the rescue.
A storm warning has been issued for parts of Brandenburg, with the DWD (German Weather Service) cautioning against potential dangers of severe thunderstorms in the districts of Dahme-Spreewald, Märkisch-Oderland, and Oder-Spree. The impact of these storms could range from lightning strikes and falling trees to power outages, landslides, rapid flooding, and hail.
The A3 motorway in Bavaria near Regensburg is partially closed due to flooding between the Parsberg and Beratzhausen exits in both directions. A ten-kilometer stretch of the highway is affected by the water present on the road surface. Emergency services including the Upper Palatinate Police Presidium, Autobahnmeisterei, and Fire Department are on hand to manage the situation, with the traffic being diverted.
Due to the danger of flooding, prisoners in Memmingen, Bavaria, are being relocated to prisons in Landsberg, Kempten, and Augsburg. Following the risk of the Memminger Ach river bursting its banks and potentially causing a power outage, the decision to evacuate approximately 150 inmates was made by prison management. The police and fire department teams have been called to oversee the operation, with their task being further complicated by flooded approach roads. The rescue of the inmates required them to navigate through water-covered streets.
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The heavy rainfall has caused water levels to rise to level 4 at several locations in Swabia, predominantly in Lower Bavaria and the Upper Palatinate, with the rivers swelling significantly. The Pegel Neu-Ulm Bad Held (Danube), Hasberg (Mindel), Fleinhausen (Zusam), Fischach (Schmutter), and Regen in Cham have all reached this level. At Dasing (Paar), level 4 is also expected. The Pegel Nattenhausen (Günz) and Dasing (Paar) indicate that this represents a 100-year flood.
The river Pegel Wiblingen (Iller) is projected to attain its top in Meldestufe 3 on Saturday through Sunday. Downstream in the Iller, water levels are decreasing. In the northern Donauzuflüssen Wörnitz, Sulzach, Altmühl, Schwarze Laber, and Taab, select pegs present dripping overflows of Meldestufe 1 and 2 with an ascending trend. From Neu-Ulm to Kelheim, the water levels are predicted to exaggerate to Meldestufe 3 during the day, exemplified in Günzburg, Donauwörth, and Neuburg. The Pegel Kelheim is presumed to follow. In the more distant Donau course to Passau, swells to Meldestufen 1 and 2 are forecast.
17:23 Airplane activities at Munich Airport proceed routinely
Regardless of the heavy rainfall in numerous parts of Bavaria, flight functions at Munich Airport continue as normal. Not any flights have had to be halted. There are a few factors for this. "We witness the water congregated in the meadows adjacent to the runways," conveyed airport representative Robert Wilhelm to BR. The airfield was likewise man-made higher. As well, the runways are sunken toward the edges, permitting the water to seep far from. Notwithstanding, the runways are also "grooved", which means they are lined with grooves, improving the water discharge. Thusly, there is at present no danger of aquaplaning, Wilhelm told the Bavarian broadcasting. The airport anticipates no significant challenges through the end of the end of the week.
17:07 Söder: "It's truly just starting now"
Minister President Markus Söder gets an understanding of the circumstances in the particularly influenced Swabia. He praises the volunteers and authorities during his visit in Diedorf in the Augsburg area. Bavaria is crisis-proof, expresses the minister president before Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann. The circumstance is a "serious burden" for the residents, says the minister president. What's more: "This isn't finished yet. It's truly simply starting now." At present, the focal point of the tempest is situated in Swabia, so assets - for instance, sandbags - are being focalized there. "Without the volunteers, we presumably wouldn't have a possibility," Söder requested the rescue administrations such as the fire department, the Bavarian Red Cross, the police, and the Technical Relief Association. They all appeared to be confident. He urged the occupants: "Please follow the principles." Exit buyouts ought to be yielded to, not to go back into the storm cellar or attempt to push the vehicle from the carport.
16:35 No more trains here
The tempests and floods in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria likewise influence train movements. As indicated by Deutsche Bahn, there are disturbances and prepared train terminations in South Germany. Two ICE lines are particularly influenced, as a representative declares. There are no trains somewhere near Munich, Bregenz, and Zurich throughout the day on Saturday due to the flood. The line between Ulm and Augsburg is additionally influenced. Additional data on track shuttings, cancellations, and delays can be found on the Deutsche Bahn webpage.
16:12 Emergency circumstance likewise in Unterallgäu - Residents who require help should hang out a white fabric
The catastrophe circumstance currently likewise applies to the Bavarian area of Unterallgäu. In the town of Babenhausen, a piece of the versatile organization neglected. Individuals who need help and can't place a call ought to hang a white sheet or material out the window to perceive their way to everyone. In Babenhausen, individuals are now being spared from their homes by means of inflatable boats.
15:57 400 THW specialists on the job in South Germany
In the setting of the tempests in South Germany, approximately 400 specialists from the Technical Relief Organization (THW) are at present occupied. The THW in Bonn reports this. They are pumping water, ensuring dams, and orchestrating resourceful individuals for precautionary evacuations. "Due to the consistent and from time to time substantial downpour, the THW is prepared to send additional THW powers explicitly," it states. In the affected districts, portable flood checkers are being set up and monitored. "In view of further weather estimates and approaching floods in the following couple of hours, the THW is prepared to send more THW powers." Groups involve roughly 40 THW specialists, who work three sewage pumps, a generator, a dissection vehicle, and a command post. Each gathering can pump up to 30,000 liters of water each moment.
15:37 All flood cautions in one guide
This guide demonstrates all present flood cautions. The graphic is refreshed as often as possible. https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1-wD0Ic415T3t3V83zL3YmKmVjO-32-jl4zK3nY9rKYpV03k
15:15 Report: 26-individual mountain climber gathering got underneath Zugspitze
A group of 26 mountain climbers is trapped midway up the Zugspitze's summit due to treacherous weather conditions. BR radio reports that around 60 centimeters of fresh snow has fallen on the mountain while heavy downpours pound the valley below. The temperature is well below freezing, and visibility is a paltry 100 meters. Multiple rescue teams have been sent out to search for the climbers amidst the blizzard, as stated by Garmisch-Partenkirchen Mountain Rescue Service. The climbers are believed to be exhausted and potentially inadequately equipped. It's puzzling why they chose to attempt scaling the Zugspitze with such severe weather warnings.
14:52: Disaster alerts declared in Donau-Ries
The Donau-Ries District in Bavaria has issued a disaster alert. This decision was made to "authorize a quicker and more organized mobilization of resources" in anticipation of rising water levels, explains District Administrator Stefan Roessle in a statement. He urges residents to "remain calm and, if feasible, avoid low-lying areas."
14:20: Ruptures in Augsburg
Damages have been reported in Augsburg's Swabian district. A dike and a dam have ruptured. The district administration confirms this. Residents in selected streets within the village of Diedorf must evacuate their homes. Preparations are being made for evacuation in the Anhausen section of Diedorf. "At this point, relocating to higher floors is inadequate," a statement from the authorities cautions. A dam collapse occurred in Burgwalden, and a dike at the Anhauser Weiher has also crumbled. All inhabitants of the affected districts are advised to leave their premises within the next hour. It's also advisable to avoid railway underpasses, as flooding could occur there. The situation is life-threatening.
Soeder and Herrmann en route to flooded region
Minister-President of Bavaria Markus Soeder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann are travelling to the flooded area in Augsburg on Saturday. They aim to evaluate the severity of the flood situation in Diedorf, as stated by the Interior Ministry. District Administrator Martin Sailer will join the two CSU politicians. The trip was hastily modified because of the pressing situation. Meanwhile, evacuation preparations are being carried out in Diedorf. The district of Augsburg is especially vulnerable, and the districts of Günzburg and Aichach-Friedberg have since declared disaster emergencies as well.
Flooding in Meckenbeuren remains critical
The floodwaters of the Schussen River are escalating in Meckenbeuren, Bodenseekreis. In the afternoon, the river level was measured at 4.72 meters, as per the municipal spokeswoman. The authorities anticipate that the peak will be reached imminently. The river had reached 4.50 meters during the last flood in 2021, while under normal circumstances it carries just 45 centimeters of water. On Friday evening, residents were urged, precautionarily, to flee their homes: about 1300 people did so, either with friends and family or at temporary shelters. To prevent potential damage, schools, kindergartens, and community halls were emptied early, and bridges were closed for safety. In this settlement of 14,000 inhabitants, bridges were also shut down. Text is here.
