A man succumbs to electrocution during the floods.
Recent downpours have transformed parts of Germany, particularly in the south, into disaster areas. A firefighter lost his life while aiding a family in an emergency. Multiple injuries have been sustained, and two individuals are still unaccounted for. Authorities have issued warnings concerning more imminent rainstorms.
Alongside extensive flooding in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, several districts have been placed on high alert. In Schwaebisch Gmuend, an ICE train was derailed owing to landslides. On highway roads, numerous accidents causing injuries occurred because of aquaplaning. A firefighter in Pfaffenhofen passed away during a rescue attempt. Another firefighter is listed as missing in Offingen. In Schrobenhausen, a woman is believed to be trapped inside a swamped cellar. Also in Upper Bavaria, a man sustained severe wounds while carrying out electrical work near the town hall of Allershausen.
The UB Nord police representative stated that the injured party was a 27-year-old employee of an energy firm. He was extracted from a flooded region adjacent to the municipal hall in Allershausen using a rescue helicopter and transported to a medical facility. It appears that his work was contingent on the flooding.
The current catastrophes have resulted from torrential rain that has persisted since Friday. As the ground is now saturated, it can no longer absorb the rainwater. In southern Germany, there have been widespread floods, especially in Bavaria. Areas near Bad Woerishofen, west of Munich, have received an eye-watering 129 litres of rainfall in the course of 24 hours—that's more than the average monthly amount of 101 litres. Emergency crews have been tirelessly working to pump excess water, isolate regions, and save lives. With the flooding in mind, at least 40 schools in eight Bavarian districts will offer online classes instead of in-person teaching next week.
The German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, will pay a visit on Monday to the regions plagued by the floods in Upper Bavaria. Alongside Bavarian Minister President Markus Soeder and Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann, Scholz will journey to Reichertshofen in Upper Bavaria.
Scholz's initial plan for Monday included visiting the fan zone for the European Football Championship event in Munich. However, due to substantial rainfall in various regions, especially the aforementioned ones, many residents have been forced to evacuate their homes. Currently, over 40,000 individuals are aiding in the efforts.
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued rainfall alerts, especially in southern Germany. On Sunday, Offenbach forecasters revealed that extreme rainfall could occur in the Stuttgart region. Additionally, there might be strong thunderstorms with intense rainfall in the Alps, from Saxony to southern Brandenburg, and Berlin.
Storms with heavy rainfall are predicted for the Black Forest, the Swabian Alb, and the Alpine Foothills, reaching as far as the Bavarian Forest. On Monday morning, these areas could experience showers accompanied by afternoon thunderstorms, while the Bavarian Forest could experience torrential downpours as well. There is a potential for up to 40 litres of rain per square metre per hour.
The community of Meckenbeuren, situated in the Lake Constance area, has cautioned against high-water tourism. The local authorities stressed that onlookers would impede rescue efforts, endanger themselves and others, and breach road closures at bridges and roads. "Even if it's currently raining less or not at all, Sunday walkers should avoid the flood zone," a representative of Meckenbeuren stated.
Police and firefighters have repeatedly urged people to avoid life-threatening currents. The Schussen has flooded the districts of Kehlen and Brochenzell since Saturday night. High water enthusiasts pose issues for rescue services in Augsburg. Due to numerous warnings, helpers have had to deal with the rescue of individuals who persisted in visiting dikes, underpasses, and the water itself. The District Administration notified the public on Sunday evening to prevent accessing these locations. "Flood waves can catch you off guard and the riverbank could give way," the authority cautioned.
Bystanders should avoid flooded roads, as well as flooded underpasses. Manhole covers could become elevated due to pressure from the sewer and pull individuals below.
Read also:
- The extreme weather conditions in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria have led to international concern, with many countries offering aid and support to Germany.
- Olaf Scholz, the German Chancellor, has postponed his visit to the European Football Championship fan zone in Munich due to the severe flooding in Bavaria, instead planning to visit affected areas with Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann.
- As the region continues to battle with flooding and extreme weather, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent have mobilized resources to deliver assistance and aid to those affected in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria.
