6:34pm: Environmental specialist suggests suspending the debt limit
The destruction brought by the floods in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria is still unknown, but it could reach millions in damage. Green politician Lisa Badum insists the debt limit should be lifted under these circumstances. Speaking to t-online, she stated, "As we face the anticipated costs, we must consider pausing the debt limit."
18:17 Hesse: Rhine and Neckar levels will keep increasing until WednesdayThe flood conditions in Hesse are particularly tense on the Rhine and Neckar. Prematurely surpassing the warning levels of these two rivers was reported by Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG) over the weekend. The Rhine in Hesse is expected to keep rising until Wednesday. Some locations have potential to surpass Hessian warning level 3. Their peak levels are estimated for Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Main's water levels are due to increase further on Monday. HLNUG does not anticipate warning levels to be exceeded there in the near future.
17:35 Police and firefighters save a man from his carIn the Baden-Württemberg municipality of Dörzbach, firefighters and police received a call to extricate a man from his car. The 54-year-old attempted to view the flood from a short distance on Sunday, driving to the flooded sports field, the Heilbronn Police Department shared. His car had stopped after a short distance. The car was submerged up to the side windows. The driver needed rescue help. Thankfully, he avoided harm but is responsible for paying the rescue operation costs.
17:01 Mayor: Seven fire departments mobilized - only one arrivedThe Schorndorf mayor, Bernd Hornikel, narrated confounding experiences during the flood night in his area. Due to rapidly rising water levels, firefighters had to be rescued themselves, he recounted in Rudersberg at the Rems-Murr district. All seven fire departments in the area were summoned to Rudersberg, but only one craft arrived. Three fire trucks succumbed. "They were completely submerged," he said. The firefighters only managed to survive after taking shelter on the rooftop of a vehicle.
16:41 Tailed Dam Rupture on the Amper - residents must evacuateThe Amper river in northern Bavaria has experienced a dam failure, necessitating displacement of residents. This applies to two minor regions near Moosburg an der Isar within Freising's district authority. Approximately a dozen people are affected. Previously, an asylum shelter was evacuated. Floodwaters have exceeded the historical levels of the Amper, causing distraction. At Inkofen, 3.98 meters was measured on Monday morning, surpassing the past high from 1994 (3.66 meters).
16:22 More dams anticipated to collapse in SwabiaReports of dam failures due to the severe flooding in Swabia are on the rise. Officials at the district office in Donauwörth advise inhabitants of towns Heißesheim and Auchsesheim in the Landkreis Donau-Ries to evacuate promptly, given the risk of dam breakage. "Total flooding of the residential areas may be anticipated," the declaration stated following a safety notice issued Sunday night. Emergency shelters have been established.
15:52 Boil water in these placesThe Donau-Ries district's health department has expanded its boil water notice due to persistent floods. Initially, this applied to Mertingen and Oberndorf communities. However, now certain residences and regions in the following locations are also urged to boil their water before further usage: Eggelstetten, Genderkingen, Bäumenheim, Heißesheim, Überfeldsiedlung, Asbach-Bäumenheim, Hamlar, and Kaisheimer districts of Sulzdorf and Gunzenheim.
15:27 Severe thunderstorm warning for areas in the middle and eastern Alpine foothillsThe German Weather Service (DWD) cautions that severe thunderstorms may develop, featuring excessive rainfall, powerful wind gusts reaching 60 km/h, and tiny hailstones in areas encompassing the middle and eastern Alpine foothills. DWD expects rainfall of 40 to 60 liters per square meter within six hours and wind gusts of up to 60 km/h. Concerned German government districts: Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen, Berchtesgaden, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Miesbach, Rosenheim, Traunstein, and Weilheim-Schongau, along with the city of Rosenheim.
Two individuals lost their lives in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, due to the ongoing flooding. According to a representative from the Aalen police station, a man and a woman's bodies were discovered in a house located in Schorndorf within the Rems-Murr district. The current flood in South Germany has caused the death toll to climb to at least four, as two persons have already perished in Bavaria.
Helping hands are around the clock busy, trying to address the situation in South Germany. The Technical Relief Organization in Donauwörth is actively filling 2000 sandbags every hour. In Günzburg, volunteers from the DLRG are tirelessly working on rescuing individuals from inundated residences. The efforts to help those in need in Bavaria are ongoing as well. There isn't a moment for rest.
The water masses in Rudersberg, Baden-Württemberg, have wielded tremendous power. In this town situated in the Rems-Murr district, cars were upended due to the intense floods triggered by the heavy rain. Cars were pulled away, ending up on the train tracks and on a fountain. Muddy paths witnessed various household belongings being swept away. An enormous collection of debris piled up on a bridge. This town has been the main target, experiencing the devastating effects of the raging floodwaters.
11 years ago, during the Niederalteich floods, locals faced the brunt of a natural calamity. The Donau dam is now at risk of collapsing at one specific location as the work to renovate has yet to be completed.
On the A9, which was partially shut down because of a dam break in Upper Bavaria, the traffic has resumed. However, a kind of cruise control has been implemented towards Munich, as per an update from a police spokesperson. Currently, only 300 vehicles can drive on the stretch between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck heading south. Afterward, the road will be momentarily shut down. The exact reason for this decision remains unexplained. This section has already been open again towards Nuremberg since earlier in the morning. "Bear in mind that this may change any moment!" warns the authorities.
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the affected Bavarian region and stressed that cooperation is crucial. "Nature possesses immense strength," says the SPD head in Reichertshofen, south of Ingolstadt. "Solidarity is imperative right now." Assistance need to continue emanating from the government. An array of rescue forces have been in action, including those from the Bundeswehr. Scholz commends everyone involved and recalls a firefighter who died while serving. Natural catastrophes like these have become more prevalent with climate change. Scholz has already visited four aid scenarios this year.
With the help of the fire department, an 81-year-old vacationer was rescued from the flooding in the Upper Palatinate. The man embarked on a journey to witness the Vils flood in the market Hahnbach near Nuremberg. However, his car became trapped, and the water kept rising. The elderly gentleman then climbed on top of his car through the sunroof and requested assistance. A witness phoned the authorities after spotting the senior citizen in distress. The firefighters deployed a specialized vehicle to save the car and the driver from the water.
A Danube cruise ship has ceased its journey, and its evacuation process has started, as per information from Bavarian Radio. The massive flood has affected this ship, located in Deggendorf, with 150 passengers from the United States and England. A work boat is currently securing its way to the harbor. It can aid in transporting 25-30 people ashore at a time.
The Danube flood warning service in Bavaria presumes that the Danube passage south of Regensburg will contain a similar water volume to what it did during the 2002 flood. This can be observed, for instance, by how the Isar flows into the Danube in Deggendorf. As of Monday morning, a water level of 7.77 meters was registered – a rise is noticeable. ntv meteorologist Paul Heger offers a summary of the current tense flood situation and a sneak peek into the potential risks ahead.
Emergency teams discovered the body of a missing 43-year-old female in a drenched basement in the overwhelmed town of Schrobenhausen, Upper Bavaria. She's been missing since last Sunday, says a police officer.
11:21: Swelling Rems and Murr continue to climb - nursing home emptied
Despite the gradual reduction in rainfall, authorities in Ludwigsburg are anticipating a critical situation and inflating Rems and Murr. "Although there's currently no heavy rain, we're expecting a rise in Rems and Murr water levels," states District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier. In Remseck, the Rems high point hasn't even surpassed yet. The crisis center is monitoring events and co-coordinating emergency services. An entire crew of around 250 firemen and women are on the case. Yesterday, a nursing facility in Steinheim an der Murr was emptied. The dwellers and inhabitants were relocated to alternative residences.
10:54: Upper Rhine closed for inland traffic
Due to torrential rain, Germany's primary waterway, the Rhine, is partially shut down for inland navigation. "Vessel movement on the Upper Rhine has been suspended," declares a spokesperson for the Waterways and Shipping Authority (WSA). "Critical marks have surpassed at the gauge stations." The impacted areas encompass, for instance, Maxau nearby Karlsruhe, Mannheim and Worms. In the Intermediate Rhine zone—the area between Mainz and Bonn—possibly closures are expected on Tuesday or Wednesday. "As per the current prognostications, these shouldn't be extremely long," clarifies the spokesperson. The closures aim to stave off damage to the banks occasioned by ship traffic. The ships induce waves which can flood the banks and inundate basements.
10:27: North Rhine-Westphalia sends aid to the flooded Danube region
North Rhine-Westphalia is delivering five water rescue crews with 48 aid workers, ten vehicles, eight trailers, and six boats to the flood-affected Danube area around Landau an der Isar. Subsisting Sunday evening, the Free State of Bavaria accepted the support request. The rescuers were subsequently deployed.
10:04 Ebersbach an der Fils residents evacuated
In the profoundly impacted town of Ebersbach an der Fils near Stuttgart, inhabitants of several streets are being cleared out for safety. The scope of people affected is undisclosed by a town representative at present. The residents were previously prompted and prompted to gather indispensable files and essential objects. In light of the flood predicament, all schools and municipal kindergartens will remain closed today, as the community announces on Facebook.
09:41 Police still search for 43-year-old in Schrobenhausen
The Schrobenhausen police in Pfaffenhofen area are still in pursuit of a missing woman with a helicopter and divers. A mistaken notice was issued overnight that she'd been discovered lifeless. The Bayerischer Rundfunk later rectified the info, and the woman remains unaccounted for. Since divers had been unable to enter the flooded cellar of her abode the day before, pumps are now applied in the structure. They hope to unearth the 43-year-old, who was last observed in the cellar of her house. NTV reporter Niklas Diemer reports from the vicinity about the tense scenario:
09:12 Söder: The flood will persist for a few days longer in Bavaria
Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder predicts that flood management authorities in the province will be preoccupied with the emergency for several more days. "It's gradually improving, but we can't issue a discharge," he relayed on Monday morning on Deutschlandfunk. He also stressed that despite cessation of precipitations, substantial rises in the river levels will hold true due to inflows. "Many people suggest it'll endure till Wednesday or Thursday."
08:41 Third Paar dam break in Pfaffenhofen department
The Paar river dam in Upper Bavarian Pfaffenhofen district has fractured at three points. This is communicated by a district administrative office rep. In the influence of Baar-Ebenhausen and Manching, residents are instigated to abandon their ground floors and seek lodging in superior levels. About 800 people were ousted in Baar-Ebenhausen. In the vicinity of 250 affected individuals were domiciled in the Grund- and Mittelschule Reichertshofen. The Paar is a tributary of the Danube. In Vohburg, the Danube is being monitored more cautiously, safety procedures are underway. The A9 highway remains shut down on both sides between Ingolstadt and Langenbruck, per the data.
08:21 Dam in Manching disintegrated
In Manching-Pichl in the Pfaffenhofen region, yet another dam has erupted, as various sources communicate, citing the district council. Instructed are occupants to forsake the ground floor of their residences and seek shelter in upper floors. Affected households reportedly cover Benedikt Street, Martinstraße, and Peterstraße.
08:01 Firefighters Stranded in Rudersberg, Baden-Württemberg
In the town of Rudersberg, part of Rems-Murr-Kreis in Baden-Württemberg, firefighters experienced the same surprise as the residents when they were suddenly confronted by rapidly rising water. They attempted to save locals but found themselves unable to continue. Firefighters were forced to take refuge on the higher floors of homes where they remained stuck for hours. Unfortunately, the fire station also suffered flooding. Their vehicles were moved to higher ground, but that area was submerged a short time later, rendering them inoperable.
07:39 Regensburg's Disaster Declaration
The water level of the Danube has been steadily rising, prompting Regensburg to declare a state of emergency. Threatening to overtake the previous peak set during the 2013 floods, the water level at Central Bridge had reached 5.90 meters by Tuesday, according to the Bavarian Flood Alert Service. In contrast, the average level on the same day was around 2.70 meters.
07:20 Helicopter Rescue in Günzburg Saves Family
Water Rescue Specialists from the Police helped save 12 people trapped on balconies and rooftops in Günzburg by helicopter, as per BR news. Among the rescued were a family with three children, including an infant no more than a week old. Traditional boat rescues were no longer feasible due to the vast water masses present.
06:50 Possible Dam Break in Manching Requires Caution from Inhabitants
The Integrated Control Center in Ingolstadt forewarns that a potential dam break in Manching might occur. Residents are advised to stay on the upper levels of their homes and avert from underground spaces such as basements and garages. The town of Baar-Ebenhausen suffered a dam breach on Sunday.
06:16 Residents of Uhingen Evacuated Amid Ongoing Flood
Uhingen, south of Stuttgart, faced flooding in the inner city, leading to the evacuation of some residents in the Filstal. As per a police spokesperson during early morning, people have been rehoused in safe locations. No injuries have been reported so far. The Göppingen District Administration estimates that several people face danger. The evacuation comes after flooding in the residential areas.
05:33 Relief Forces From Baden-Württemberg Introduced in Günzburg
Baden-Württemberg has come to the rescue by sending emergency forces to the Bavarian district of Günzburg, including "Sanitation and Care" units and a water rescue truck, as reported by the Baden-Württemberg Interior Ministry. They will assist locals displaced from their homes and houses caused by the recent melee with the fierce elements.
05:13 Provisional Dam Built in Esslingen
As a preventive measure to stem the predicted flood in Esslingen am Neckar, nearly 1,500 tons of stone and sand are being piled on a canal on either side of a "Water House." This project aims to prevent water from flooding parts of the inner city and its adjacent regions, particularly along the canals.
03:26 Residents in Ebersbach an der Fils Brace for Possible Evacuation
Ebersbach an der Fils, a southern German city close to Stuttgart, readies certain residents for eventual evacuation. The city shared this message on Facebook, instructing them to gather essential documents and materials for overnight stays away from their homes. They were advised to remain in upper floors for safety.
03:11 Lifting of Severe Weather Warnings Doesn't Include Entire Bavaria
The German Weather Service (DWD) has ceased all severe weather warnings for heavy thunderstorms in Germany. However, isolated rain showers looming with heavy rainfall are expected in the regions of Bavaria and near Bavarian Forest regions by noon. While thundershowers remain unlikely, locals are urged to be cautious.
Tourists getting caught in floods are causing issues for emergency responders in the Augsburg district. The rescue teams must now deal with more frequent retrievals of individuals who, despite the warnings, went to the dikes, underpasses, and even into the water. The district office is urging people to steer clear of these areas to give relief to the rescue teams. "Flood waves can catch you off-guard and the banks may collapse," cautions the authority. Motorists and pedestrians should avoid flooded streets, as well as submerged underpasses. Manhole covers can be uplifted by the pressure within the sewers and potentially suck people in.
01:14 Kretschmann and Strobel visit flooded communities
Baden-Württemberg's Governor Winfried Kretschmann and Interior Minister Thomas Strobel will visit two areas hit by floods in the state on Monday. They plan to start their day in Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis and later head to Erbach in the Alb-Donau-Kreis, as per a state government spokesperson. Kretschmann deliberately decided not to visit the site on Sunday to get a firsthand perspective. "In the critical scenario where every hand is required and every sandbag can make a difference, I chose not to go there initially, but to remain updated continuously and thoroughly instead," he said. The rescue services are at their limits, he noted on Sunday afternoon.
23:50 Full alert in Ebersbach an der Fils - Noise barrier pierced
The city of Ebersbach an der Fils near Stuttgart, saw a full alert on Sunday due to the flood. This means that all firefighters are on call. Flood waters have damaged a noise barrier on the B10, causing the road to be inundated, as evidenced in a video shared on the city's Facebook page. The residents were warned: "Please stay indoors (sic!) and don't visit the disaster sites. There's a risk to one's life, as you can see in the video. Please don't approach the water, there might be unseen manhole covers!" The locals were also advised against entering their basements and to remain on the upper floors.
23:16 A 43-year-old missing person is found dead in a cellar
The storm in South Germany has resulted in yet another fatality. A 43-year-old missing person was discovered dead in a cellar, said Bayerischer Rundfunk.
Correction: Incorrectly, it was reported that a woman had been found dead. Bayerischer Rundfunk later amended the statement, noting that the 43-year-old is still missing.
22:16 Lightning strike cripples signal box - Disruption of public transport in Dresden area
A lightning strike disabled a signal box in the Dresden region, disrupting local transportation in the evening. It mainly affected the regional train from Dresden to Bautzen and Görlitz, informed a spokesperson for the railway. The signal box in Radeberg, located just east of the state capital, was hit by lightning around 17:10. It was repaired that same evening. After approximately two hours, trains started running normally once again, stated the spokesperson.
22:00 A nursing home in Lauingen is being evacuated
A nursing home near the Danube in Lauingen is being evacuated due to the flood. The city intends to guarantee the continuous care of the residents. They can all be accommodated and well-taken care of in an educational facility.
21:30 Dam ruptured: Areas between the Danube and Schmutter in danger of getting evacuated
Several communities near the Danube and the Schmutter in the Donau-Ries district are at risk of being evacuated. The leading cause, according to the district administration in Donauwörth, is the breaching of a dam. This applies to the neighborhoods of Auchsesheim and Heißesheim, parts of Nordheim, Mertingen, Asbach-Baumenheim, and Urfahrhof. The authority implores people to remain calm, prepare their essentials, and follow the instructions of the rescue personnel. Emergency shelters are also provided.
21:03 Faeser also journeys to the Bavarian flood areas
Following further flooding in southern Germany, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser will visit the Bavarian flood-affected regions on Monday. Both intend to assess the situation together with Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann in Reichertshofen, Upper Bavaria's Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm district. Also attending the meeting will be the president of the Technical Relief Organization, Sabine Lackner.
Over 40 schools in eight districts of Bavaria will not hold in-person classes this week due to the ongoing flood situation. According to the Bavarian Ministry of Education, these districts include Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Aichach-Friedberg, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Freising, Fürstenfeldbruck, Dachau, Dillingen, and Augsburg. On Monday, for example, all primary, middle, and high schools in Aichach-Friedberg, as well as local grammar schools, vocational and professional high schools, and special schools, will be closed. In Wertingen, Dillingen, all schools will be shut. Additionally, some kindergartens in Pfaffenhofen will remain closed on Monday. On Monday and Tuesday, classes at primary, middle, and high schools in Schrobenhausen, as well as the vocational school, special school, and grammar school, will be canceled.
Meanwhile, about 30 towns in Swabia suffer from partial or total power outages, according to power supplier LEW. The worst-affected districts are Günzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen. Emergency services are working to restore power by switching to other power lines wherever possible. The duration of the power cuts varies depending on the situation.
Over 1,000 people in Günzburg have been taken to safety, according to reports from the Günzburg district administrator Hans Reichart to Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation. These citizens are being relocated to sports halls and Legoland. The need for further evacuation measures arises as the water level of the Günz has risen significantly in recent hours.
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall, with the potential for extreme rainfall in the Stuttgart area, and strong thunderstorms with heavy rain in the Alps, from Saxony to southern Brandenburg and Berlin. The Black Forest, Swabian Alb, and Alpine foothills to the Bavarian Forest are likely to see substantial thunderstorms and heavy rainfall of up to 40 liters per square meter per hour. On Monday morning, showers are expected in the Alpine foothills south of the Danube, with stronger thunderstorms at noon, and again in the Bavarian Forest. The DWD also warns of heavy rainfall, potentially up to 40 liters per square meter per hour.
In a desperate effort to mitigate the consequences of the flood situation, Straubing's mayor Markus Pannermayr has declared a disaster alert due to the rapidly deteriorating conditions along the Danube. The city anticipates exceeding the fourth level of the flood warning, which could lead to large areas being flooded. The flood warning service issues four levels of warning, with level 1 implying small overflows and level 4 indicating widespread flooding of built-up areas. Rescue operations are progressing well, but there have been reports of some streets being closed due to flooding.
In response to the flood situation, the partly flooded Bodenseekreis municipality of Meckenbeuren has requested that tourists stay away. Gawkers could hinder rescue efforts, endanger themselves and others, and compromise the safety of rescue personnel and bystanders. The Schussen river burst its banks on Saturday evening, inundating streets and houses in the districts of Kehlen and Brochenzell.
Lastly, the German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree district, with the potential for lightning strikes, uprooted trees, strong gusts, falling objects, and even damage to houses at the second-highest warning level. Also, landslides, and hail are possible.
4:53 p.m.: More districts declare emergency statusDue to the ongoing floods, the districts of Dachau and Kelheim have also declared a state of emergency. "The current situation, coupled with the forecasts for water levels, remains tense," says Kelheim's district administrator Martin Neumeyer. "With this measure, we want to ensure that relief efforts can be coordinated and supplied as effectively as possible," he adds. Dachau's district administrator Stefan Löwl echoes similar sentiments, stating that the step was necessary because local forces were unable to manage the multiple deployment sites in the coming hours. This allows relief efforts to be sent to the affected areas.
4:25 p.m.: Train services may also be restricted on MondayPassengers should also prepare for restrictions on train travel on Monday due to the weather in southern Germany. The Deutsche Bahn (German Railway) is extending its leniency policy for tickets purchased from Sunday to Monday. Individuals can postpone their journey without incurring additional fees. However, train connections for these tickets have been cancelled by the company. It remains uncertain how severely the traffic will be impacted. Long-distance routes in the south, such as Munich-Nuremberg-Berlin, Stuttgart-Mannheim-Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Crailsheim-Nuremberg and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Ulm-Augsburg-Munich, have been affected. The Bahn advises against traveling in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, regions that are experiencing flooding.
4:08 p.m.: Around 3,000 people in Bavaria affected by evacuationsIn Bavaria, approximately 3,000 individuals have been affected by evacuations resulting from the floods. This is what a spokeswoman for the Bavarian Interior Ministry in Munich has reported. The numerous deployments related to the flooding require approximately 20,000 forces to be deployed, while 40,000 forces have been involved since the start of the situation.
3:51 p.m.: Weather expert: "I can't even imagine the damage"The flood situation in the south isn't likely to improve anytime soon, according to meteorologist Bernd Fuchs. "Every drop is too much," he stresses. Asked about a possible connection to climate change, he sees the current situation as a "clear sign of where we're heading."
3:22 p.m.: Shocking accident during power line work in the floods - Man seriously injuredDuring power line work in the flooded area of Upper Bavaria's Freising district, a 27-year-old employee of an electric company sustained a serious electric shock. The spokesman for the Bavarian Police Headquarters Upper Bavaria North reported the incident, which occurred near the town hall in Allershausen. The man was airlifted from a flooded area and taken to a hospital via rescue helicopter. It is believed that the work was connected to the flood situation.
3:02 p.m.: Shipping on the Upper Rhine temporarily haltedDue to heavy rainfall in southern Germany, the water levels on the Upper Rhine have risen, leading to the partial suspension of shipping. In Karlsruhe, no ships have been allowed to sail since Saturday, according to the Rhine High Water Forecast Center Rhineland-Palatinate. The water level in Maximiliansau reached the critical shipping high water mark II of 7.50 meters on Saturday night. By Sunday afternoon, it had reached 8.20 meters, but was expected to decrease at night. However, further increases in water levels are expected downstream: in Mannheim, Worms, and Mainz. The Middle and Lower Rhine may also experience high water levels that could pose a threat to shipping in the coming days. At the Koblenz gauge, a level of approximately 6.10 meters is expected on Tuesday, above which no ships can sail. On Wednesday, the highest levels are expected in Cologne and Dusseldorf.
2:38 p.m.: Autobahn A9 closed for about 50 kilometersThe Autobahn A9 is closed for approximately 50 kilometers in the Pfaffenhofen district due to a dam break. The area affected is between Allershausen and Ingolstadt. The police spokesman for Upper Bavaria North revealed that the road is partially flooded. This is the first time this type of flooding has occurred in this area for the police. There are also power outages. Many people have been impacted. Efforts are underway to resolve the issue. The district administration has requested that residents of the towns of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching leave the ground floor of their homes and apartments and move to higher floors.
15:23 p.m. update: According to Autobahn GmbH, the section between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck is closed in both directions. In addition, the section between Pfaffenhofen and the Autobahn junction Neufahrn is severely restricted. It is recommended to bypass the entire area. Further flood-related restrictions apply on the A8 in the direction of Munich in the Sulzemoos area.
Economy Minister Habeck stresses the importance of climate protection as Germany recovers from recent flood disasters. "We must not ignore or undervalue the need to reduce CO2 emissions," Habeck tells visitors in flood-stricken Bavaria's Reichertshofen. He predicts that severe floods, previously considered centuries apart, are now occurring often.
10:00 Chancellor Scholz set to tour flood-impacted areas
Chancellor Scholz is due to explore flood-impacted regions firsthand on Monday. Reports indicate the head of state will make the trip.
10:00 22-year-old firefighter goes missing during Helples of Offingen mission
A 22-year-old firefighter vanished in the aftermath of a Helples of Offingen operation in Günzburg's district. Police officials confirm the firefighter disappeared along with his colleague and three DLGER helpers while evacuating residents in a sinking boat pre-dawn. Four others, including the firefighter's accomplice, were successfully airlifted, while rescue efforts for the 22-year-old continue with two helicopters. A 42-year-old firefighter fell victim to a previous flood operation.
09:50 It's Raining Cats and Dogs As Storms Pummel South Germany
The new week brings no respite to south Germany's flood-hit zones. NTV's meteorologist, Alexander Björn, announces a multiple-pronged procession of rain and thunderstorms adding to most places' suffering.
09:34 Dam with Collapse Risk for Reichertshofen, Pfaffenhofen, and Vicinity
Residents of Rottmannshart, Westenhausen, Lindach, Irsching, and Knodorf are advised to ascend to loftier areas, while steering clear of basements. Authorities warn of the potential for a spill from the dam belonging to the communities outlined above. In case of emergency, dial 112.
09:15 Söder: Around 40,000 Rescuers Tackling Bavaria's Flood Tragedy
Bavarian Prime Minister, Markus Söder, asserts that almost 40,000 responders are diligently handling the Bavarian floods. Assuring relief operations are clear, he emphasizes the urgency of frequently swapping tired personnel with fresh ones. "This is crucial to accommodate the demanding nature of the task and protect lives at heightened risk from fatigue."
09:10 Straubing Establishes Dam Monitoring Units
Having measured the Donaupegel's rise, Straubing now installs Dam Guards by 3 pm. Professionals will be on site to monitor water levels and damages to the dam. Furthermore, additional sandbags are being stuffed.
08:20 Collapsed Dam Impacts Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching
In Pfaffenhofen's district, a dam has collapsed, putting residents of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching in jeopardy. Individuals below the ground floor are asked to evacuate as swiftly as possible.
07:57 Scholz Acknowledges Rescuers' Devotion, Mourns Fallen Colleague
Chancellor Olaf Scholz commends the dedication of rescue workers and helpers in flood-stricken areas. Breaking news discloses that a firefighter in Pfaffenhofen perished amid a flood operation in the wee hours of the night. Scholz offers a heartfelt tribute by tweeting, "I'm deeply saddened and extend my condolences to his fellow firefighters."
07:43 Catholic Day Closing Prayer In Erfurt Invokes Divine Support for Flood Victims
Georg Bäting, Chair of the German Bishops Conference, extends a prayer of hope that the lives of the afflicted are maintained. He urged that the Almighty intervene to facilitate rescue attempts at Erfurt Cathedral.
06:50 Flooding Continues to Dominate Conversations Throughout Germany
The Chairman of the German Bishops' Conference, Georg Bäting, sends a special message of comfort to the Catholics of Erfurt's closing ceremony in memoriam of stricken flood areas. "It's crucial to hold human lives in profound admiration and salvation."
In the towns of Kehlen and Brochenzell within the municipality of Meckenbeuren, part of the Bodenseekreis, the streets are submerged as the Schussen river has overflowed. The district spokesperson confirms this news. Around 1300 residents decided to evacuate their homes and seek safety, while others opted to remain in their dwellings and stay on the upper floors. The water level of the Schussen peaked at an astonishing 4.86 meters on Saturday evening. Since then, the water levels have started to recede. Typically, the Schussen river only reaches a depth of 45 centimeters in this area.
10:34 Ministry President Söder pays tribute to a deceased firefighter
The Bavarian Minister President, Markus Söder, expresses his condolences to the firefighter who lost his life while on a rescue mission in the Flood-affected regions of Bavaria through a Twitter post. "The dedication and commitment this firefighter displayed towards fellow humans will be eternally etched in our memories," writes Söder. "Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to his colleagues and his family. We all share in the sorrow. It's heartbreaking." The 42-year-old member of the volunteer fire department perished when a rescue boat overturned near the cities of Affalterbach and Uttenhofen due to a home that had been submerged.
10:09 Euro 2024 match training for the Ukrainian football team relocates due to rainfall
The Ukrainian national football team was supposed to have its final training session at 6:00 pm on Sunday at the Max-Morlock-Stadion in Nuremberg, in preparation for the EM test match against the German national football team. Unfortunately, this plans were cancelled due to heavy rainfall. Instead, the team will practice in Erlangen in an act of preserving the lawn of the stadium. A spokesperson for the Ukrainian team confirms this information. On Monday, at 8:45 pm, Ukraine is scheduled to play against the German national football team on ARD.
09:52 Munich has witnessed 290 firefighter interventions due to flooding
Munich is another location that has been impacted by the heavy rain, causing flooding for hours. As of 6:00 am on Saturday, the fire department has been called in for more than 290 interventions. Most notably, they are pumping out flooded cellars and underground garages. What's more, many trees became uprooted and roads have had to be shut down. On Saturday evening, the flood warning level 2 of the Isar was surpassed.
09:24 Masses of water shoot through after a dam break in Anhausen
Anhausen saw a significant improvement in the flooding situation, however, there's still some cause for concern. After a dam location approximately 5 kilometers away burst, the area was flooded in record time. "People who were evacuated here are progressively returning," reports ntv reporter Niklas Diemer. On the other hand, there are still areas facing critical water levels.
09:08 More THW personnel are being dispatched to flooded regions in Southern Germany
The Technical Relief Organization (THW) will be sending more personnel to assist in the flood-hit areas of Southern Germany. Over 1800 people are currently involved, according to the THW spokesperson. The THW is aiding in dam security, filling sandbags, and aiding with evacuations in flooded areas, among other things. In addition, the fire department and other emergency services are working together.
08:47 Mudslide in Baden-Württemberg affects a train and a vehicle
The ongoing floods in different parts of Germany continue to worry many people, particularly in the south of the country. The eastern part of Baden-Württemberg is even facing the risk of a century-old flood. Rescue teams and helpers are struggling to cope with the heavy workload.
08:30 An ICE train will be retrieved from the mudland in the morning
The ICE, which got stranded due to a landslide, will be retrieved in the upcoming hours. The regional train cannot pass through the affected track, discloses a railway spokesperson. There is a rescue locomotive on standby on the second track of the line to aid in the recovery process. It's unclear how long this line disruption will continue. However, the regional train has already been able to bypass the stranded ICE. On Saturday night, two coaches of an ICE train, carrying around 185 passengers, derailed due to a landslide.
08:16 A person is missing in Schrobenhausen
In the town of Schrobenhausen, a person is reported missing. It's feared that the individual may have been in the cellar of a residence when the flood occurred, leaving that part of the house and the upper floor underwater. Emergency teams are currently unable to access the affected house.
07:30 Flooding downstream: Several areas on alert in BavariaIn the southern part of Bavaria, there are still multiple measuring pegs indicating high flood levels. Areas of concern include the Donau tributaries of Günz, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, Paar, Abens, Ilm, and Amper, as well as the upper Danube. The alert level is currently at 4, as reported by the flood warning service. The peak of the flood wave has been reached during the night, leading to a shift downstream. Areas that might be affected include Neuburg, Kelheim, Regensburg, and Straubing. The peak wave is expected to pass through these places at the start of the week. Meanwhile, water levels are expected to rise on Sunday in Mühlried in Schrobenhausen district, as well as in Manching and Geisenfeld in Upper Bavaria, and Abensberg in the Kelheim district.
06:56 More storms with heavy rains forecast in the southThe German Meteorological Service (DWD) is predicting more heavy thunderstorms with heavy rainfall in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg on Sunday. These thunderstorms are likely to last from noon until Monday night, according to the DWD's morning forecast. As a result, some roads may get flooded, and basements might fill with water. Additionally, there is a risk of damage due to lightning strikes.
05:42 Evacuation calls expanding in Augsburg districtIn some parts of Augsburg, the authorities are broadening evacuation calls. Residents in Kühlenthal and Allmannshofen are urged to leave immediately, per instructions from the integrated control center. Bus facilities will be provided for those who cannot depart by themselves. Other areas of the district saw similar evacuation orders on Saturday evening and night. Most of these communities are located along the Schmutter river, a Danube tributary.
05:06 Wiesbaden taking measures against potential floodingWiesbaden authorities are taking steps to deal with possible rising water levels on the Rhine and Main rivers. In the Kostheim district, a flood barrier has been constructed overnight. A pump has also been installed in the Rhine-side district of Schierstein. Parking lots near the rivers could be avoided in the coming days, as a precautionary measure. No further action is anticipated at present.
04:07 Long-distance train traffic between Stuttgart and Munich suspendedBecause of a landslide near Schwäbisch Gmünd, train services between Stuttgart and Munich have been stopped. Train officials have not furnished a time estimate for when the line will reopen, as morning break. The landslide has obstructed passage between Aalen and Stuttgart, while the route between Ulm and Augsburg had already been shut down due to flooding in southern Germany; consequently, long-distance trains had to be re-routed.
03:15 City of Ulm helps with filling 30,000 sandbagsWorking in shifts overnight, the Technical Relief Organization (THW) in Ulm filled 30,000 sandbags for flooded and flood-prone regions in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. On Sunday morning, Mr. Bernd Urban, head of the THW Logistics Centre, announced that they could generate around 400 sandbags each hour. Demands for these sandbags were received from various locations in southwestern Germany as well as neighboring regions. Increasing water levels have been observed in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria at numerous points due to the prolonged rain.
02:29 Red Cross prepares for deployment of underground water rescue teamsThe Bavarian Red Cross is enlisting rapid response and diving teams from Unterfranken for the flood mission in southern Germany. The water rescue teams are expected to assist in Günzburg, where the levels of several bodies of water have reached the threshold of a hundred-year flood. This condition refers to a flood incident that occurs only once every 100 years, or surpassing the mean.
A car was struck by a landslide in Schwäbisch Gmünd, a town in Württemberg. The driver miraculously escaped unharmed. The landslide happened on a road and railway line that run parallel to each other. Schwäbisch Gmünd is around 50 kilometers due east of Stuttgart, and heavy rain has been falling in the area since Friday.
In Neu-Ulm, the city has surpassed the high water mark on the Danube and Iller rivers, although the feared 100-year flood didn't happen. Mayor Katrin Albsteiger believes the extent of the damage won't be clear until the situation stabilizes. Streets, the banks of the Danube and Iller, and bike paths may stay closed for a while.
The Munich Fire Department has issued a warning about danger at the Isar River Bank due to rising water levels. Two popular walking trails near the river have been shut down. Munich is currently at alert level 2 flood status, which entails water flooding non-constructed areas or disrupting traffic due to deep waters on roads.
Six hundred and seventy people may soon be evacuated in Schrobenhausen, Upper Bavaria, as bulldozers and boats are deployed to stave off potential disasters in the district of Muhlried and along the Weilach River. The district administration has also set up a disaster hotline. The local government fears a severe flood, as District Administrator Peter von der Grün observes.
A flood emergency is underway in Eastern Thuringia, where firefighters are tackling numerous incidents. The Gera district reported flooding, submerged roads, fields, and underground basements. A small creek overflowing has been reported in the Gera district.
The persistent rainfall in southern Germany is easing, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). The DWD meteorologist reveals that there won't be as severe rainfall as what occurred the previous night. However, showers and thunderstorms from the north could cause local inundations later in the day on Sunday. These may be very potent and could linger for some time. If these showers and thunderstorms fall on the already saturated ground, a new round of flooding could ensue. The areas at risk of flooding are the Swabian Alb, places around Augsburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Regensburg.
The Freising district has proclaimed a disaster situation because of overflowing rivers and streams. The authorities are concerned that the Amper and Glonn rivers will reach their highest ever recorded levels. There's a genuine threat of flooding in Hohenkammer, as well as anywhere along the Amper. The latter appeals to their citizens to be cautious and prepare for such a grave scenario, like emptying their basements. So far, ten Bavarian districts have declared a disaster situation.
Due to continuous rainfall, the Dillingen district in Bavaria now has a disaster situation. The situation along the Zusam, a tributary of the Danube, has worsened during the night, as the district's authorities indicate. The district's crisis team has requested military support from the Bundeswehr. The Zusam threatens to cause a 100-year flood that could affect Buttenwiesen and Wertingen. The district is now releasing water from the swollen Danube into the Riedstrom, the unlikely savior here. The administration urges local farmers to secure their herds.
7:59 PM - Eighth municipality in Bavaria declares a state of emergency
The Neuburg-Schrobenhausen district in Bavaria declares a disaster situation, marking the eighth municipality in the region. The reason for this is the swelling of the Danube and its tributaries, as reported by the district administration of the Upper Bavarian municipality. The Water Management Office in Ingolstadt anticipates a level 4 at the Neuburg gauge for the night. The situation is even more critical at the Paar, one of the Danube's tributaries, and at the Weilach, which subsequently flows into the Paar. In the Schrobenhausen area of Mühldorf, the Weilach has already exceeded its banks, flooding a residential area. Emergency services are preparing to evacuate residents, as Landrat Peter von der Grün confirms. The situation is particularly concerning in the southern part of the district. Von der Grün emphasizes the importance of protecting roads, bridges, and pathways. "This is a top priority so that the fire department can continue to respond to emergencies."
7:34 PM - Dramatic rescue: Red Cross airlifts two from house roof
The Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) has airlifted two people from the roof of their house in Babenhausen using a helicopter. The BRK spokesperson states that the individuals were in a life-threatening situation, as the house was at risk of collapsing due to the immense water masses. Other people were also rescued from their homes using inflatable boats. The rescue teams managed to save over 100 people, including numerous children.
7:13 PM - People in various communities near Augsburg are instructed to leave their homes
Water rescuers were also required to free people from their vehicles, as they could not open the doors themselves due to the water masses. The imminent danger of life-threatening consequences from the current and rising water in the car prompted the reminder from the BRK spokesperson.
In multiple communities of Augsburg, residents are requested to vacate their houses and apartments due to the critical flooding circumstances. The situation will likely worsen in the northern part of the district, according to a spokeswoman for the Augsburg district administration. Areas affected include Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and the entire community of Nordendorf. The Swabian government has established a temporary shelter at the Augsburg fairgrounds.
6:48 PM - Bundeswehr assists in flooded regions of Bavaria
German military personnel are being deployed to address the flood situation in Bavaria. "The Bundeswehr is aiding the Gunzburg and Aichach-Friedberg districts, having received official requests," explains a spokesperson from the Bavarian Bundeswehr Command. Around Gunzburg, blankets and field beds are being distributed. In the Aichach-Friedberg district, approximately 50 Bundeswehr soldiers and helpers are expected to arrive in the coming hours. Two Bundeswehr trucks are currently operational there.
6:20 PM - Faeser ensures additional support
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser guarantees further assistance to the flood-stricken regions in southern Germany. "The THW is prepared to send additional forces due to the heavy rain and impending flooding," says the SPD politician from Berlin, referring to the Technical Relief Organization (THW) and its forces. "We will continue to support the impacted federal states with all the resources available." Currently, 520 THW helpers and helpers are active. They have rescued people, secured dikes, and drained water. Faeser also expressed her gratitude to all those involved in battling the water masses: "We thank the rescuers who are working tirelessly to save lives."
6:06 PM - 29 climbers saved at Zugspitze
The distressed climbers at the Zugspitze (referring to the Live Ticker update at 3:15 PM) have been successfully rescued. The mountain rescue service managed to escort 29 individuals to the Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin on Zugspitzplatt. From various groups, distress calls were transmitted. They were unable to continue their ascent due to the inclement weather and new snow at 2500 meters above sea level, nearly 900 meters before the Sonnalpin. The mountain rescue service responded accordingly. The Zugspitzbahn employees were also on their way to search for the climbers, states a representative for the Zugspitzbahn.
5:42 PM - Storm warning for parts of Brandenburg
A storm warning has been issued for certain regions of Brandenburg as heavy rain persists. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow the instructions given by the authorities.
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued a warning for parts of Brandenburg regarding the potential dangers of intense thunderstorms. The areas of Dahme-Spreewald, Märkisch-Oderland, and Oder-Spree are under the second highest caution level until the evening, the DWD states. Lightning strikes, falling trees, high-voltage lines, dropped objects, swift road flooding, landslides, or hail are all possible occurrences.
18:11 A3 Motorway: Partially shut down in Bavaria
The A3 motorway in Bavaria near Regensburg has been closed for approximately 10 kilometers between exits Parsberg and Beratzhausen in both directions. The road surface is flooded, according to the Upper Palatinate police headquarters. "The water is pushing from the fields onto the motorway," explains a spokesperson. The traffic police, Autobahnmeisterei, and fire department are at the scene, along with police. Diversions will be enforced, the spokesperson notes.
17:51 Prison in Memmingen Evacuated
Due to flood danger, the prison in Memmingen, Bavaria, is being evacuated. Nonstopnews reports this information. 150 inmates are being temporarily relocated to Landsberg, Kempten, and Augsburg. Just next to the prison, the Memminger Ach - a small river - has turned into a raging stream, threatening to flood the prison. Portions of the courtyard are already underwater. This may lead to a power outage, prompting the prison staff to declare the evacuation. Police arrived with multiple emergency vehicles to execute the evacuation. In the end, the evacuation had to be performed over flooded streets, as the access road was already overflowing. The fire department was concurrently using pumps to remove water from the prison.
17:35 Heavy rain leads to water levels reaching level 4
The intense rain is causing water levels to rise to level 4 at various gauges in Swabia. Rivers in Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate are becoming more swollen. The Hochwassernachrichtendienst (HND) indicates that the gauges in Neu-Ulm Bad Held (Danube), Hasberg (Mindel), Fleinhausen (Zusam), Fischach (Schmutter), and Regen in Cham have all surpassed level 4. Likewise, hundred-year floods are reported in Nattenhausen (Günz) and Dasing (Paar).
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1H7q6X0S5gYq38F-jb4lK2VpJA1cH6D56_k5CmT2OQ
The Pegel Wiblingen (Iller) is projected to reach its peak in Meldestufe 3 from Saturday to Sunday, with the water levels already receding in the lower Iller. In the north of the Danube tributaries, Wörnitz, Sulzach, Altmühl, Schwarze Laber, and Naab, there are individual gauges with overflows of Meldestufe 1 and 2, alongside an increasing tendency. From Neu-Ulm to Kelheim, the water levels are predicted to rise to Meldestufe 3 throughout the day, followed by Kelheim at night. In the further Danube section to Passau, increases to Meldestufen 1 and 2 are expected.
17:23 Therefore, flight operations at Munich Airport continue as usual
Despite the heavy rain in various Bavarian regions, flight operations at Munich Airport can proceed normally. So far, no flights have been canceled. There are several factors contributing to this: the water sits in the meadows next to the runways, the airport was built slightly elevated, the runway is inclined towards the sides, enabling water to drain, and the runways are "grooved" or equipped with grooves to expedite water runoff. As a result, there is currently no risk of aquaplaning, airport spokesperson Robert Wilhelm told BR. With regards to the upcoming weekend, the airport does not anticipate any major difficulties.
17:07 Söder: "Now things are really picking up"
Minister President Markus Söder is assessing the conditions in the severely affected Swabia. He commends the helpers and authorities during his visit to Diedorf in the Augsburg district. Bavaria is crisis-resilient, the minister president says, addressing Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann. The situation is a "heavy burden" for the residents, he adds. Söder goes on to state, "This is far from over. Things are really picking up now." The focus of the weather catastrophe is currently concentrated in Swabia, necessitating resources like sandbags to be focused there. "Without the helpers and helpers," Söder praises rescue services such as fire department, Red Cross, police, and Technical Relief Organization. Their commitments are exemplary. To the citizens, he urged, "Please comply with the rules." Evacuation orders should be obeyed, not attempting to venture back into the cellar or driving the vehicle out of the garage.
The weather catastrophe in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria is causing issues for rail transportation. German rail company Deutsche Bahn informed that rail disruptions and cancellations are expected in southern Germany, with two ICE train lines being particularly affected. No trains will run between Munich, Bregenz, and Zurich on Saturday due to the flood. The line from Ulm to Augsburg is also affected. For more information regarding track closures, cancellations, and delays, visit the Bahn website.
16:12 Emergency measures in Unterallgäu - Hang a white cloth for help
The catastrophe situation has reached the Bavarian district of Unterallgäu. In the town of Babenhausen, part of the mobile phone network has failed. If anyone in need cannot make an emergency call, they should hang a white sheet or cloth outside their window, advises the district administration. In Babenhausen, inhabitants are already being rescued with inflatable boats.
15:57 THW forces deployed in South Germany - Over 400 responders on duty
An estimated 400 responders from the Technical Relief Organization (THW) are currently engaged in South Germany. The THW in Bonn disclosed this information. They are working to pump out water, secure dams, and evacuate residents ahead of time, says the THW. The organization is prepared for additional THW forces to be deployed if needed. Mobile flood gauges are being installed and monitored. With the weather forecast suggesting more rain and potential floods, the THW has placed more forces on standby. Each emergency group is composed of approximately 40 responders who operate three sewage pumps, a power generator, an exploration vehicle, and a command post.
15:37 All flood warnings plotted on a map
This map contains all current flood warnings. The map is continuously updated. https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1H7q6X0S5gYq38F-jb4lK2VpJA1cH6D56_k5CmT2OQ
15:15 Mountain climbing group of 26 stranded below the Zugspitze peak
A population of 26 mountain climbers seems to be stuck several hundred meters below the peak of the Zugspitze. According to BR, 60 centimeters of fresh snow has accumulated on the Zugspitze over the past few hours while there's continuous rain in the valley. Temperatures are below freezing, visibility barely reaches 100 meters. Several rescue teams are searching for the climbers amid the blizzard, as reported by the BR, citing the Garmisch-Partenkirchen Mountain Rescue Service. The group is fatigued and likely unprepared. The reason for the trek up the Zugspitze despite the dismal weather alert is unclear.
14:52 Donau-Ries district declares disaster state
The Donau-Ries district in Bavaria has issued a disaster declaration. The intent is to band together resources more quickly and efficiently to tackle the anticipated high water levels, explains District Administrator Stefan Roßle in a statement. He suggests maintaining a calm demeanor and avoiding low-lying regions if possible.
14:20 Dam collapse near Augsburg - Imminent evacuation imminent
A damaged dam and another broken dike have been recorded in Augsburg's Swabian district. The district administration made this announcement. Inhabitants of certain streets in Diedorf must leave their homes. Evacuation preparations are underway in Anhausen, Diedorf. "Leaving one's home is no longer an option," states the warning. A dam has failed in Burgwalden, and a dike in the Anhauser Weiher has buckled. Residents of the affected areas should depart their homes promptly by the next hour and make their way to the Diedorf Schmuttertalhalle. They should steer clear of train underpasses, as water may flow through them, posing a risk.
Söder and Herrmann will visit the flooded area
Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann are scheduled to visit the flood-stricken region in Augsburg's Swabian district on Saturday. The two CSU politicians are eager to obtain a firsthand look at the flooding in Diedorf before making any decisions. District Administrator Martin Sailer will accompany the pair. The visit site was adjusted at the last second due to the situation. The swabian region is experiencing a particularly critical issue with the flood. After Landkreis Günzburg, the districts of Augsburg and Aichach-Friedberg have recognized a disaster situation.
The Schussen river in Meckenbeuren, part of the Bodenseekreis, is experiencing a rising flood level. It reached 4.72 meters in the afternoon, according to a spokesperson for the municipality. They hope the peak will arrive soon. In comparison, the river rose to 4.50 meters during the last flood in 2021. Normally, it only contains 45 centimeters of water. Meckenbeuren's authorities cautiously instructed around 1300 residents to leave their homes on Friday evening. The majority sought refuge with friends or relatives. A small percentage utilized a shelter. To prevent potential harm from floodwaters, schools, kindergartens, and halls were emptied beforehand. The town, with a population of 14,000, also temporarily shut down bridges.
Read also:
- The Green climate expert, Lisa Badum, suggests temporarily suspending the debt limit to cover the costs of the flood damage in Germany.
- The International weather service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for areas in the middle and eastern Alpine foothills, which could result in heavy rainfall, strong winds, and hail.
- The destruction caused by the floods in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria could lead to a suspension of the 'debt brake,' a fiscal rule limiting the growth of public sector debt, due to the massive costs associated with reparations and recovery efforts.
