At noon, Danube flooding resembles 2002 situation, possible second surge approaching.
There's an increase in the water level of the Danube. The Bavarian flood warning service anticipates that the Danube beyond Regensburg will contain as much water as during the 2002 flooding. This is evident when the Isar flows into the Danube at Deggendorf, informs a spokesperson for the flood warning service. With a length of about 2850 kilometers, the Danube is the second longest river in Europe. In Passau, 10.80 meters was documented at the Ilzstadt monitoring point on August 13, 2002, while on Monday morning, it was 7.77 meters - and rising. ntv weather expert Paul Heger provides an overview of the precarious flood situation and the potential hazards in the days ahead.
11:27: Corpse of missing woman discovered in flooded cellar
Rescue teams have discovered the corpse of a missing 43-year-old woman in a flooded cellar in the heavily inundated Upper Bavarian Schrobenhausen. She disappeared on Sunday, according to a police spokesperson.
11:21: Rems and Murr's water levels persistently rise - nursing home evacuated
In the Ludwigsburg district, although the rain has ceased, they still anticipate a critical situation with rising water levels in the Rems and Murr. "Despite the absence of heavy rain, we predict an increase in the Rems and Murr," says District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier. In Remseck, the peak level of the Rems has yet to be attained. The monitoring center is overseeing the situation and coordinating the emergency services. Some 250 firefighters make up the team. On Monday morning, a nursing home in Steinheim an der Murr was relocated. Residents and patients were transported to alternative accommodations.
10:54: Upper Rhine shuts down for inland shipping
Due to the excessive rainfall, Germany's principal waterway, the Rhine, is closed for inland shipping. "Shipping on the Upper Rhine has come to a standstill," states a representative for the Waterways and Shipping Authority (WSA). "Danger levels have been breached at the gauges." The affected regions include spots like Maxau near Karlsruhe, Mannheim, and Worms. Around the Middle Rhine, the shutdown might happen on Tuesday or Wednesday. "The estimated length of the closures shouldn't be too lengthy," says the spokesperson. The closures aim to prevent any harm to the shoreline caused by the watercraft. The ships generate waves that can inundate the bank's edges and, for instance, fill basements.
10:27: North Rhine-Westphalia sends help and boats to Bavaria
North Rhine-Westphalia is dispatching five water rescue squads with 48 assistants, ten vehicles, eight trailers, and six boats to the flooded areas in Bavaria near Landau an der Isar. As specified by the Düsseldorf Department of the Interior, the Free State of Bavaria acknowledges the aid endeavor on Sunday evening. The rescuers were subsequently despatched.
10:04 Residents in Ebersbach an der Fils instructed to evacuate
In the heavily affected community of Ebersbach an der Fils south of Stuttgart, residents of several streets are being relocated for their safety. The number of people affected is initially unknown. The citizens were previously notified and instructed by the city to pack vital papers and significant items. Following the flooding scenario, all schools and municipal kindergartens are to stay shut on this day, according to a city announcement on its Facebook page.
09:41 Rescuers hunt for 43-year-old in Schrobenhausen
The police in Schrobenhausen, situated in the Pfaffenhofen district, are still scouring for a missing woman with the assistance of a helicopter and divers. In the nighttime period, they were informed that the 43-year-old had perished. However, the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation has since revised the information, reporting that the search for the woman is ongoing. Since the flooded cellar of the home couldn't be entered the preceding day, pumps have been installed in the building, asserts a police spokesperson. They hope to locate the 43-year-old, who was last seen within the house's cellar. ntv journalist Niklas Diemer reports from the scene regarding the tense circumstances.
09:12 Söder: Flooding to continue in Bavaria for several more days
Bavarian Premier Markus Söder foresees that the flooding will keep Bavarian emergency response authorities occupied for several more days. "While it's getting slightly better, we can't issue an overall warning," he claimed on Monday before Deutschlandfunk. Though it has stopped raining, the larger rivers' water levels will still rise owing to the inflows, he reaffirmed. "The majority anticipate it will carry on until Wednesday or Thursday."
08:21: A dam on the river Paar in Upper Bavaria's Pfaffenhofen district has shattered at three different points, according to an administration spokesperson. Residents in Baar-Ebenhausen and Manching have been instructed to leave the bottom floors of their houses and residences and move to higher levels. Over 800 people were evacuated in Baar-Ebenhausen. Approximately 250 people affected by the situation found shelter at the Grund- und Mittelschule Reichertshofen. The river Paar feeds into the Danube. In Vohburg, the Danube is being closely monitored; defensive measures are being taken. The A9 motorway remains closed in both directions between Ingolstadt and Langenbruck, according to the current details.
08:01: Firefighters in Rudersberg were trapped by the rising water. Reports from an ntv reporter in Rudersberg indicate that the emergency crews were caught off guard by the swelling water levels. The firefighters had to terminate their home evacuation initiatives while they attempted to rescue residents. The emergency responders managed to save themselves by climbing onto the upper floors of houses and had to remain there for hours. The firehouse was likewise submerged. Vehicles were driven to a higher location; however, this area was also quickly flooded. Two cars were unable to be securely transported.
07:39: Regensburg has declared a state of emergency. The water level of the Danube has increased even further, with measurements at the Eisernen Brücke gauge reaching a height of 5.90 meters, according to the Bavarian Flood Information Service. The Danube's average height on Tuesday last week was around 2.70 meters. Experts confirm that the water level peaked at precisely 6.82 meters during the major flood on June 4, 2013.
07:20: Helicopters rescue individuals from balconies and roofs in Günzburg. Water rescue specialists from the Wasserwacht have used a police helicopter to save 12 people from balconies and rooftops in Günzburg. In one instance, this involved a family with three children, one of whom was only a week old. The water masses had rendered rescue by boat impractical.
06:50: The possibility of a dam failure in Manching is causing concern. The Integrated Control Center Ingolstadt warns that a dam in Manching in the Bavarian Pfaffenhofen district may collapse. People are advised to stay in upper floors and steer clear of basements and underground garages. A dam in Baar-Ebenhausen broke on Sunday.
06:16: Residents in Uhingen, south of Stuttgart, were evacuated due to flooding. Authorities have been evacuating people from some homes in Uhingen due to flooding in the Filstal. According to a police spokesperson who spoke early on Monday morning, no one was harmed in the evacuations. The Fils, which is located east of Ebersbach, poses a significant threat to numerous people. An extraordinary state of emergency has been declared.
05:33: Communities in the Ostalbkreis are being evacuated due to flooding. The severe flooding in the Ostalbkreis, Baden-Württemberg, necessitated the evacuation of portions of the communities of Leinzell, Heuchlingen, and Göggingen. According to a crisis staff spokeswoman who spoke early on Monday morning, the entire town of Täferrot was going to be evacuated. At this point, the first floodwaters had already reached the town by Monday morning. Over 250 to 300 people were taken to safe locations.
05:13: Baden-Württemberg is providing emergency staff to Bavaria. Due to the ongoing flood situation, Baden-Württemberg is dispatching emergency forces to the neighboring district of Günzburg in Bavaria. The Baden-Württemberg Interior Ministry reports that three "Sanitation and Care" units have been shipped to the district at the request of Free State of Bavaria. The emergency units will offer support and supplies to individuals who had to leave their homes and dwellings as a result of the flood. In addition, a water rescue vehicle from Ulm will be dispatched to the Günzburg district to assist with the evacuation of individuals.
4:30 AM - Esslingen Constructs Temporary Dam to Avert Flooding
Esslingen am Neckar plans to build a temporary dam in anticipation of predicted flooding that could threaten parts of the city center. Flooding is expected to occur in the early hours, potentially affecting the canals in the city center, as reported by the city. Tonight and tomorrow morning, around 1,500 tons of stone and sand will be stacked near the "water house" at a canal. Traffic around the construction site may be disrupted, city officials advise. The city advised residents against entering basements and underground garages in the city center and in Oberesslingen earlier due to the impending flood situation.
03:26 AM - Ebersbach an der Fils Implements Voluntary Evacuation
The heavily flooded town of Ebersbach an der Fils, south of Stuttgart, is prompting some residents to voluntarily evacuate. Some residents near specific streets are instructed to gather essential belongings to spend the night elsewhere. "The fire department Ebersbach is coming to the residents," alerted the city via Facebook. It's crucial that residents remain in the upper floors of their houses.
03:11 AM - Weather Service Eases Rainfall Warnings
Germany's Weather Service (DWD) has removed storm warnings for heavy rains and severe thunderstorms nationwide. However, scattered rain showers remain a possibility in southern Germany, according to DWD. From midday forward, areas south of the Danube and the Bavarian Forest are projected to be impacted. Occasional thunderstorms aren't out of the question.
02:04 AM - Augsburg Warns About Flood Tourists
The Augsburg district is expressing concern about "flood tourists" creating difficulties for emergency responders. People venturing into high-risk areas like river banks, underpasses, and into or near water bodies, despite repeated warnings, are posing a challenge for rescue teams. The district urges the public to avoid these locations: "Flood waves may catch you off guard and banks could collapse."
01:14 AM - Kretschmann and Strobl Travel to Flood Sites
The Baden-Württemberg minister president, Winfried Kretschmann, and state interior minister, Thomas Strobl, will tour two flood-stricken areas in the state on Monday. A spokesperson revealed that the pair plans to visit Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis in the morning and Erbach in the Alb-Donau-Kreis later in the day. Kretschmann had opted not to witness the flood scenario in person, explaining, "I myself have determined, after careful deliberation, to not visit these sites during the acute situation where every hand is needed and every sandbag can be useful, but to instead stay informed continually and closely." This was during the afternoon when he stated that emergency forces were at their limit.
11:50 PM - Ebersbach an der Fils Issues Alert and Sound Barrier Breached
A full alert was sounded in Ebersbach an der Fils, near Stuttgart, Sunday night, due to flooding. This indicates that all fire brigade personnel are on duty. Water masses managed to break through a sound barrier on the B10, flooding the road, as reported on the city's Facebook page. The population was issued a dire warning: "Please stay at home and do not approach emergency sites. There's partial danger to life, as seen in the video. Kindly refrain from entering the water as manhole covers may not be visible." People are encouraged not to go into their cellars and to stay in the upper levels.
11:00 PM - Dresden Rail Traffic Experiences Disruption
A signal box near Dresden failed after being struck by lightning, causing some disruptions in regional rail operations. Most affected was the regional train connecting Dresden, Bautzen, and Görlitz. The spokesperson for the railway estimated that it would take about two hours for the situation to stabilize.
10:30 PM - Nursing Home Residents Evacuated in Lauingen
A nursing home in Lauingen near the Danube is in the process of evacuation. The city aims to secure permanent care for the residents. They can all be accommodated and cared for at a local educational center.
Residents from several communities near the Danube and Schmutter in Donau-Ries, Swabia need to evacuate due to a massive dam break. The affected settlements include Auchsesheim, Heißesheim, Nordheim, Mertingen, Asbach-Bäumenheim, and Urfahrhof. The Donauworth district administration advises people to stay calm, gather necessary items, and comply with rescue officers' instructions. Emergency shelters are available as well.
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser plan to visit the Bavarian flood-stricken region with Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann on Monday. The team will assess the situation and interact with rescue workers in Reichertshofen, Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm's district. The president of the Technical Relief Organization, Sabine Lackner, is also expected.
At least 40 schools in eight Bavarian districts will not have in-person instruction on Monday due to flood conditions. These districts include Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Aichach-Friedberg, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Freising, Fürstenfeldbruck, Dachau, Dillingen, and Augsburg. On Monday, Aichach-Friedberg's primary, middle, and secondary schools, along with the local grammar schools, vocational schools, and higher schools, will have no in-person instruction. In Dillingen's Wertingen, all schools will be closed. Several kindergartens in Pfaffenhofen will remain shut on Monday. In Schrobenhausen, primary, middle, and secondary schools, vocational school, special school, and grammar school all have in-person instruction canceled on Monday and Tuesday.
Approximately 30 Swabian communities suffer from power outages, according to the network operator LEW. Additionally, within the distribution grids (low voltage), individual streets and households have outages. These outages mainly occur in the districts of Gunzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen. LEW stresses that the teams are attempting to provide power by switching to alternative lines, if tenable in the existing situation.
More than 1,000 people in Günzburg are safe, with several housing in halls and Legoland facilities. Günzburg District Administrator Hans Reichart shared this detail with Bavarian Radio. Due to significant rise in Günz river levels, extra evacuation measures were required.
German Meteorological Service (DWD) cautions of substantial rainfall, particularly in southern Germany. Meteorologists in Offenbach predict heavy rainfalls, especially in Stuttgart, as well as strong thunderstorms with significant rain in the Alps, from Saxony to southern Brandenburg and Berlin. At night, the Black Forest, the Swabian Alb, and the Alpine foothills to the Bavarian Forest may witness strong storms with potential heavy rainfall. On Monday, major rainfalls are expected in Alpine foothills south of the Danube.
Due to worsening flood conditions along the Danube, Straubing's mayor Markus Pannermayr proclaimed a disaster alert. This decision was made because of the scale and intricacy of the demands and manpower required. The Danube's water level in Straubing is over six meters. The city anticipates that disaster level 4, potentially flooding multiple built-up areas, will be surpassed shortly. The disaster level system consists of four stages. At stage 1, minor overflows are expected, while stage 4 signifies extensive area flooding. The security measures are going well and are set to persist. In some parts, roads have already been shut due to flooding.
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser are visiting Bavaria's flood-affected area on Monday to examine the situation with Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder, Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann, and Technical Relief Organization president Sabine Lackner in Reichertshofen, Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm's district.
40 Bavarian schools in 8 districts will forgo in-person instruction due to flood conditions on Monday. The districts affected are Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Aichach-Friedberg, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Freising, Fürstenfeldbruck, Dachau, Dillingen, and Augsburg. On Monday, Aichach-Friedberg's primary, middle, and secondary schools, local grammar schools, vocational schools, and higher schools will have no in-person instruction. In Wertingen, Dillingen's location, all schools will be closed. Some kindergartens in Pfaffenhofen will remain shut on Monday. In Schrobenhausen, primary, middle, and secondary schools, an vocational school, a special school, and a grammar school won't have in-person instruction on Monday and Tuesday.
About 30 Swabian communities are undergoing power outages, as stated by the network operator LEW. Besides, an issue occurs within the distribution grids, affecting individual streets and households. The outages mostly impact the districts of Gunzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen. LEW specifies that the teams are attempting to maintain power supply by moving to other lines within limits of the current scenario.
1,000+ people are securely housed in Günzburg, with several accommodated in halls and some at Legoland. Günzburg District Administrator Hans Reichart relayed this information to Bavarian Radio. Due to a significant increase in Günz river levels, additional evacuation measures were necessary.
Flood Warning at Partially Submerged Community: Stay Away to Avoid Impeding Rescue
Meckenbeuren, a partially flooded municipality in the Bodenseekreis, has issued a precautionary warning against tourism during these floods. As stated by a spokesperson from Friedrichshafen, tourists could hinder rescue operations, place themselves in harm's way, and endanger others. Visitors are requested to avoid areas surrounding floods, even if rain has lessened or stopped. They are also encouraged to adhere to bridge and road closures. Not following these guidelines could jeopardize lives, as the current is highly dangerous. Meckenbeuren's Schussen river overflowed, submerging streets and homes in the districts of Kehlen and Brochenzell on Saturday night.
Storm Warnings in Brandenburg Oder-Spree
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued a notice for hazardous thunderstorms in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree district. Until Sunday afternoon, hazardous weather conditions exist at the second-highest level of warning. People should be prepared for lightning strikes, tree uprooting, hurricane-force winds, and falling items. Consequently, there is a possibility of property damage, as well as landslides and hail.
Declared State of Emergency in More Districts
With the worsening flood situation, the districts of Dachau and Kelheim have declared emergencies. Kelheim's district administrator, Martin Neumeyer, said the current situation, coupled with the impending high water levels, poses a significant risk. Dachau's district administrator, Stefan Löwl, concurs with this assessment. Both administrators insist declarations are necessary because local authorities can't keep up with the growing number of crisis sites. This allows for external assistance to be provided.
Deutsche Bahn Offers Flexibility Amidst Frequent Weather Disruptions
Due to the inclement weather in southern Germany, the Deutsche Bahn has extended its leniency regulation through Monday. Customers with train tickets dated Sunday to Monday can rebook their journeys if they're disrupted by weather conditions. This is to provide some freedom for travelers. However, the extent of the service interruptions cannot be determined at this moment. Numerous long-distance routes in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg are affected. Numerous trains, such as the Munich-Nuremberg-Berlin, Stuttgart-Mannheim-Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Crailsheim-Nuremberg, have been canceled. The railway advises against traveling in flood-prone areas.
Over 3,000 People Affected by Evacuations in Bavaria
Around 3,000 people in Bavaria are affected by flood evacuations. According to a representative from the Bavarian Interior Ministry in Munich, resources have been shifted to tackle the numerous emergency sites due to the flooding. Since the crisis began, there have been 40,000 emergency personnel dedicated to response efforts.
Meteorologist: Floods Signal Future Peril
Meteorologist Bernd Fuchs from ntv believes the flooding in southern Germany won't subside anytime soon. He states it's not a gradual process. He believes the current situation is indicative of the future crisis we'll face as a result of climate change.
Working During Floods Becomes Perilous, Employee Seriously Injured
In the Upper Bavarian district of Freising, a man was gravely injured by an electric shock while working in the flood zone. A representative for the Upper Bavaria North Police Presidium said a 27-year-old employee of an energy firm received the shock while working near the Allershausen town hall. The injured man was evacuated by helicopter to a hospital. The incident appears to be related to flood management activities.
Maritime Traffic Suspended on Upper Rhine
The heavy rain across South Germany has raised water levels in the Rhine, compromising shipping. At the Karlsruhe gauge, sailing hasn't been allowed since Saturday night. The Rhine High Water Forecasting Center Rhineland-Palatinate identified a shipping water level of 7.50 meters at Maximiliansau on Saturday evening. By Sunday afternoon, it rose to 8.20 meters. While initial predictions forecasted a decline in water levels, further increases are expected downstream: in Mannheim, Worms, and Mainz, among others. On the Middle and Lower Rhine, high levels could also disrupt commercial traffic. For instance, Cologne and Düsseldorf expect high water levels on Tuesday, reaching the critical 6.10 meters where ships can't navigate.
The Autobahn A9 is closed for roughly 50 kilometers in Pfaffenhofen due to a dam break. This impacts the area between Allershausen and Ingolstadt, where flooding has occurred. A police spokesperson for Upper Bavaria North shares that this is a new situation for the authorities, who are also dealing with power outages in the region. Many residents have been affected by these issues and efforts are underway to resolve them. The district administration has requested that residents living in Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching leave the ground floors of their homes and move to higher levels as a precautionary measure.
15:23 p.m. Update: Autobahn GmbH reports that a section between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck is closed in both directions. Additionally, the stretch between Pfaffenhofen and the Neufahrn interchange is experiencing significant traffic congestion. It is advised to avoid this area entirely. Other parts of the A8 are also subject to flood-related restrictions near Sulzemoos heading towards Munich.
14:38: Economic Minister Habeck speaks out about climate change after South Germany flood
Economic Minister Robert Habeck emphasizes the need for more climate protection efforts when the South German flood situation improves. While visiting the flood-impacted town of Reichertshofen in Bavaria, he states, "The reduction of CO2 emissions, ensuring we have enough time to adapt, must not be taken lightly or ignored but is our top priority." Habeck mentions that the frequency of natural disasters has increased as a sign that "nature and climate are changing." What was once considered a century-level flood event now happens "about every few years."
13:59: Chancellor Scholz to visit flood-hit areas on Monday
Chancellor Olaf Scholz intends to visit the flood-stricken areas on Monday to thoroughly understand the situation. [This text has been translated from German to English.]
13:21: 22-year-old firefighter misplaced after Offingen rescue operation
A firefighter aged 22 is missing following a rescue operation in Offingen, which is in Günzburg. The spokesperson for Swabia South Police Headquarters confirmed this event. The young man was with a fire department colleague and three DLRG helpers when their boat, which was being used for evacuations, capsized around 2:50 a.m. all four DLRG helpers were able to be extracted from the water. However, the 22-year-old's whereabouts remain unknown. Searches have been ongoing since the early morning hours, aided by two helicopters. Tragically, a 42-year-old firefighter has already perished in a different flood operation.
13:11: No respite: Thunderstorms bring continual rain
This week is showing no signs of relief for the areas facing floods in southern Germany. Ntv meteorologist Bjoern Alexander describes the persistent and widespread rainfall, highlighting that new localized thunderstorm centers have emerged.
12:52: Severely flooded homes in the Paar area warn of possible dam break
The Paar region has a potential impending dam break hazard. The affected areas include Rottmannshart, Westenhausen, Lindach, Ernsgaden, Irsching, and Knodorf in the Pfaffenhofen district. Authorities have urged residents to move to higher floors immediately and to avoid basements and cellars. In the event of an immediate emergency, the fire department can be contacted at the emergency number 112.
12:39: Söder: 40,000 first responders on duty in Bavaria for floods
Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder divulges that approximately 40,000 emergency responders are at the ready to manage the flood crisis in the entire state. Addressing a visit to Upper Bavaria's Reichertshofen, Söder emphasizes the importance of well-organizing these relief operations by easing the pressure on those who have been in the field for some time. "The longer people are on the job without any breaks, the higher the risk of mistakes and exhaustion will be, which would increase the threat to life and safety."
12:29: Straubing sets up dam monitoring
The Donaupegel in Straubing is expected to hit its highest alert level four throughout the day. A message dispatched by the city details that dam guards will be established starting at 3:00 p.m. Fire department team members will maintain an on-location presence, regularly recording water levels and reporting any dam-related damage. More sandbags are being filled as well.
12:03: Baar-Ebenhausen dam experiences a breach
In Pfaffenhofen, a dam has been compromised in the area of Baar-Ebenhausen. Residents of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching are advised to evacuate the ground floors of their homes immediately.
11:37: Söder announces 40,000 first responders on duty for floods in Bavaria
The German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, expresses his appreciation and respect to the rescuers and helpers in the areas affected by the floods. "The death of a firefighter in Pfaffenhofen has left me deeply affected," the SPD politician writes on social media. "My thoughts are with his colleagues and fellow firefighters." In the Upper Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, a firefighter lost his life during a rescue operation at night.
11:15 Floods become a topic at the Catholic Day in Erfurt
The chairman of the German Bishops' Conference, Georg Bätzing, dedicates a special greeting to those affected by the floods at the closing mass of the Catholic Day in Erfurt. "We hope that human lives are saved and protected," Bätzing says in front of the Erfurt Cathedral.
10:26 Parts of Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis are underwater
The districts of Kehlen and Brochenzell in the municipality of Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis are flooded. The Schussen has overflowed its banks and submerged the streets, says a spokesperson for the municipality. Approximately 1300 people had already voluntarily evacuated their homes on Saturday to find refuge in a safe place. Some residents are reported to have remained in their homes and stayed in the upper floors. The water level of the Schussen reached more than 4.86 meters on Saturday evening. Since then, the water level has been falling. Normally, the Schussen is only 45 centimeters deep there.
10:01 Bavarian Minister President Söder honors the deceased firefighter
Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder honors the firefighter who lost his life during a rescue operation in the Bavarian flood area in a social media post. "His commitment and dedication to his fellow human beings will always be remembered," Söder writes. "Our deepest sympathy and our thoughts are with his colleagues and comrades. We all mourn. It's heartbreaking." Authorities say the 42-year-old volunteer firefighter died when a rescue boat capsized near the towns of Affalterbach and Uttenhofen due to flooding.
09:39 Ukrainian national football team relocates training due to heavy rainfall
Due to heavy rainfall, the Ukrainian national football team cannot hold its final training session before the EM test match against the German national football team at the Max-Morlock-Stadion in Nuremberg on Sunday at 6:00 pm as planned. Instead, the team will train in Erlangen. "We decided to spare the lawn of the stadium," a spokesman for the Ukrainian team explains. Ukraine plays against the German national team on Monday (8:45 pm/ARD).
09:03 Munich area severely affected by flooding
The Munich area is also experiencing the effects of heavy rainfall. Since Saturday at 6:00 am, more than 290 interventions have been made by the fire department, mainly for pumping out basements and underground garages. In addition, several trees were uprooted as the ground is very wet, and roads had to be closed. The flood warning level 2 on the Isar was exceeded on Saturday evening.
08:44 Water masses shoot through after dam break in Anhausen
The flood situation in Anhausen is slowly improving after a dam broke five kilometers away and the area was flooded in a short time. "People who were evacuated here are returning slowly," reports ntv-reporter Niklas Diemer. However, the water levels are still critical in other places.
08:20 THW deploys additional personnel in flood-affected areas
The THW (Technical Relief Organization) is sending more helpers to the flood-affected regions in southern Germany. More than 1800 people are involved so far, a spokeswoman confirms. The helpers are securing dams, assisting with sandbag filling, and supporting evacuations in flooded areas. In parallel, the fire department and other emergency services are also taking action.
08:05 Landslide in Baden-Württemberg affects train and car
The flood situation in Germany continues to worry people. Particularly the southern part of the country is affected by water masses, and there is even a threat of a century-old flood in the east of Baden-Württemberg. Rescue services and helpers are also reaching their limits.
07:44 ICE to be recovered from landslide in the morning
The ICE (InterCityExpress) affected by a landslide in Baden-Württemberg will be recovered in the morning. The regional train is not allowed to pass the track, explains a spokesperson. There is a rescue locomotive on the second track of the line that will assist the recovery. It is still unclear how long the shutdown will last. In the meantime, the regional train has managed to pass the ICE. On Saturday evening, two wagons of an ICE with 185 passengers onboard derailed due to a landslide.
07:30 Person missing in Schrobenhausen
In Schrobenhausen, someone is unaccounted for. They were believed to be in a cellar of a home when the flood hit. A representative from the Neuburg-Schrobenhausen district administration stated that the cellar and parts of the upper floor are now submerged. Rescue teams are unable to reach the house.
07:44 Tragic incident as firefighter passes away in the floods
A firefighter lost his life in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria. He was with three other firefighters during a rescue operation when their boat overturned, and he was discovered the next morning, reported the district administration's spokesperson.
07:29 Flooding moves downstream - multiple level 4 warnings issued
Level 4 floods are being recorded at various locations in Bavaria, according to the flood warning service. The focus is on the southern Danube tributaries of Gunz, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, Paar, Abens, Ilm, and Amper, along with the upper Danube, as the floods peak. With the wave shifting downstream, the attention has moved from Swabia towards Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate. Possible flooded regions could include Neuburg, Kelheim, Regensburg, and Straubing, where the peak wave is anticipated to arrive at the beginning of the week. Increased water levels are expected in Mühlried in the Schrobenhausen district, Manching, and Geisenfeld in Upper Bavaria, as well as in Abensberg in the Kelheim district on Sunday.
06:54 Meteorological service forecasts further heavy rain in the south
Forecasts from the German Meteorological Service (DWD) indicate a potential for additional severe thunderstorms with heavy rain in southern regions like Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg on Sunday. Between noon and Monday night, thunderstorms with heavy rain are expected. There might be flooded streets and cellars once more, and the danger of damage from lightning strikes is present.
05:39 Augsburg district initiatives additional evacuations
As floodwaters persist in the Bavarian Augsburg district, officials are broadening evacuation calls for residents. Those in Kühlenthal and Allmannshofen shouldn't stay in their homes any longer, urgently instructs the integrated control center early in the morning. Buses will be made available for evacuees unable to leave the area. Besides, residents in other parts of the district were asked to abandon their houses and apartments on Saturday evening and night. Mainly impacted communities are those along the Schmutter, a Danube tributary.
05:05 Wiesbaden prepares for potential rising water levels
Wiesbaden authorities are taking preventive measures against rising river levels on the Rhine and Main. A flood protection wall has been installed in Kostheim, the fire department reports in the early morning. In the Rhine-facing district of Schierstein, a pump is set up, as well. People were advised to steer clear of car parks next to the river in the next few days, cautions the fire department. Currently, it's not expected additional actions would be necessary.
04:04 Long-distance train transport suspended between Stuttgart and Munich
Because of a landslide in the Baden-Württemberg town of Schwäbisch Gmünd, long-distance train transport between Stuttgart and Munich has been paused. A spokesperson for the rail company couldn't provide an estimation on how long the route would remain closed in the early morning. The landslide is blocking the bypass between Aalen and Stuttgart, with the line between Ulm and Augsburg already shut down due to the floods in southern Germany. As a result, long-distance trains have been diverted.
03:13 THW in Ulm helps 30,000 sandbags to flood-prone areas
Technical Relief Organization (THW) units in Ulm spent the night producing 30,000 sandbags for flooded and flood-threatened regions in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. According to Bernd Urban, the head of the THW Logistics Center, the rate of 400 sandbags per hour could be managed. Requests for sandbags are coming from various locations in the southwest and neighboring regions. Persistent rain has led to significantly increased water levels in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria in several areas.
01:27: Train wagons derail in Schwaebisch Gmuend due to a landslideIn the Baden-Wuerttemberg town of Schwaebisch Gmuend, two wagons from an ICE train holding 185 passengers got derailed because of a landslide. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the passengers are now being evacuated from the train. According to a railway representative, the first two wagons went off the tracks around 11:20 pm, though they didn't fully tip over. The landslide had a width of roughly 30 meters. The train occupants will temporarily stay in a nearby kindergarten before being transferred to Pluederhausen via bus.
00:59: Car struck by landslide in Schwaebisch GmuendA vehicle hit by a landslide in the Wuerttemberg town of Schwaebisch Gmuend was reported by police initially. The car's driver remained unharmed. The landslide incident took place at the intersection linking the affected county road and the railway line. Schwaebisch Gmuend is situated 50 kilometers east of Stuttgart. Since Friday, the region of Baden-Wuerttemberg has experienced significant rain.
00:14: Neu-Ulm overcomes flood peak - extent of damage uncertainThe city of Neu-Ulm managed to avoid the feared 100-year flood on the Danube and Iller rivers, according to the city administration's estimation. However, the extent of the damage resulting from the flooding is still unclear until the situation returns to normal. Two streets, the Donau embankments, and the paths alongside the Danube and Iller will be closed for the time being.
23:44: Danger at the Isar River Bank in Munich due to floodingThe Munich Fire Department has issued a warning regarding potential hazards at the Isar River Bank resulting from flooding. Additionally, two popular walking paths along the river have been shut down. Munich has attained alert level 2 on the flood scale, with heavy rain and high water levels disrupting transportation routes.
23:23: 670 people to be evacuated in Schrobenhausen, Upper BavariaFirefighters and rescue units are preparing to evacuate 670 individuals in the Upper Bavarian town of Schrobenhausen. In the Muehldorf district and a street near the Weilach River, excavators and boats are in operation according to the Neuburg-Schrobenhausen district administration. The authority has also set up an emergency hotline for residents. Earlier, the municipality had declared a disaster situation. The most critical areas in Upper Bavaria, per District Administrator Peter von der Gruen, are in the southern part of the district.
23:03: Frequent fire department interventions in eastern ThuringiaFrequent fire department interventions are occurring due to heavy rain and thunderstorms in eastern Thuringia, as reported by the control center in Gera. The region around Ronneburg in the Greiz district is being heavily impacted, with flooded roads, fields, basement floods, and a small stream overflowing.
22:45: Reduced rainfall in the south - no warning issued just yetThe German Weather Service (DWD) reports a gradual decline in rainfall in the flooded or endangered areas of southern Germany. Though there will not be as many significant rainfall amounts as the previous night, the same meteorologist expects more showers and thunderstorms from the north to cause local flooding on Sunday afternoon. These showers could be extremely heavy and take a long time to subside. "If they drop on the already saturated ground, there will be more flooding," he mentions. The most vulnerable areas to these showers include the Swabian Alb, areas a little farther north, and areas around Augsburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Regensburg.
22:25: Disaster situation also in FreisingThe Freising district has declared a disaster situation due to rivers and streams overflowing. The Amper and Glonn rivers are expected to hit record-breaking water levels, per the municipality of the Upper Bavarian town's district administration. The authority fears a massive flooding in the town of Hohenkammer and all other places along the Amper. Residents should take necessary actions for handling such a severe situation, such as emptying their basements. So far, ten Bavarian districts have declared a disaster situation.
21:50 Disaster situation declared in Dillingen District
The Dillingen district in Bavaria has announced a disaster situation due to ongoing rainfall. The tributary Zusam, which is a part of the Danube, has deteriorated, according to a report from the authorities. The local crisis team has reached out to the Bundeswehr for assistance. They predict a 100-year flood on the small river that could affect nearby towns like Buttenwiesen and Wertingen. The authorities are also planning to release water from the swollen Danube into the Riedstrom, a previous riverbed. The district administration urges local farmers to keep their livestock in secure stables.
21:09 Eighth municipality in Bavaria declares disaster situation
The Landkreis Neuburg-Schrobenhausen has declared a disaster situation due to the increasing Danube and its tributaries. The district administration of Upper Bavaria's municipality reports that Neuburg is the eighth municipality to face this situation. The Water Management Office Ingolstadt expects level 4 at the Neuburg gauge for the night. The situation at the Paar, one of the Danube tributaries, and the Weilach, which in turn flows into the Paar, is more severe. The Neuburg-Schrobenhausen district administration reports that the Weilach has already overflowed in the Schrobenhausen district of Mühldorf, flooding a residential area. Emergency services plan to evacuate the residents there, with Landrat Peter von der Grün leading the way. The situation is alarming, especially in the southern part of the district. Von der Grün emphasizes that protecting roads, bridges, and paths is a top priority. "This is crucial for the fire brigade to continue with rescue operations."
20:34 Life-threatening situation: Red Cross saves people from roof of house with helicopter
The Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) rescued two people from the roof of their house in Babenhausen using a helicopter. The spokesman from the BRK stated that the individuals were in a life-threatening situation as the house threatened to collapse due to the large water masses. Other people were also rescued using inflatable boats. The rescue teams helped over 100 people, including many children.
20:13 Residents in several areas near Augsburg advised to leave their homes
Water rescuers had to save people from their cars as well. People were trapped in their cars because they could not open the doors due to the rising water levels. According to the spokesman, the situation could quickly become life-threatening due to the current and the rising car water.
In the Landkreis Augsburg, residents are asked to leave their homes due to the critical flood situation. The situation is expected to worsen in the evening in the northern part of the district. Affected areas include Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and the entire municipality of Nordendorf. The Swabia state government has established a temporary shelter at the Augsburg fairgrounds.
19:48 Bundeswehr supports flood-stricken areas in Bavaria
Bundeswehr soldiers are aiding the flood-hit regions in Bavaria. A spokeswoman for the Bavarian Bundeswehr command told Antenne Bayern, "The Bundeswehr is assisting the two districts of Günzburg and Aichach-Friedberg, after both districts filed an official request." Günzburg received blankets and field beds, while Aichach-Friedberg expects 50 soldiers to arrive as helpers in the following hours. Two Bundeswehr trucks are also being used there.
19:20 Faeser promises more support
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser pledges further support to the flood-affected regions in southern Germany. "The THW is prepared to deploy more forces," said the SPD politician in Berlin, referring to the technical relief organization (THW). "We will continue to support the affected states with all available resources." By Saturday night, 520 THW helpers, male and female, were already in action. They have been rescuing people, fortifying dikes, and pumping away water. Faeser expressed gratitude to all those involved: "I'd like to thank everyone who is currently battling the water masses and tirelessly working to save lives." She advised people in the flood-affected regions of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg to take warnings and instructions from the authorities seriously: "Please pay attention to these warnings!"
Rescue efforts have been successful at Zugspitze (refer to 15:15 Live Ticker entry). The rescued individuals, numbering 29, have been aided by the mountain rescue service to the Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin. With multiple groups issuing distress calls, their progress had been hindered by adverse weather and new snow around 2500 meters above sea level, approximately 900 meters before Sonnalpin. The mountain rescue team responded, while Additionally, mountain rescue service employees and Zugspitzbahn personnel were sent with snow groomers to search for the climbers.
18:42 Storm warning for parts of Brandenburg
The German Weather Service (DWD) issues a caution regarding the potential danger of severe thunderstorms in select areas of Brandenburg. The second highest alert level is currently in consequence until the evening, according to the DWD. Individuals should be aware of the potential risks of lightning strikes, fallen trees or power lines, heavy hail, rapid road flooding, or landslides pertaining to these conditions.
18:11 Flooded motorways - A3 partially closed
The A3 motorway in Bavaria between exits Parsberg and Beratzhausen is partially shut down, affecting approximately ten kilometers in both directions due to significant water buildup. Law enforcement emphasized the flooded road surface as the culprit, stating the water being pushed onto the road from nearby fields. According to police in Regensburg, the Autobahnmeisterei, fire department, and police officers are all present at the scene. Traffic rerouting efforts are underway, as per a spokesperson.
17:51 Emergency evacuation at Memmingen prison due to imminent flooding
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=14B5O_4z0n0GX9c5139Zr-XI45g8X65126qFjW-0X1-j0Z5D
The justice detention center in Memmingen, Bavaria, has been evacuated to safeguard against the potential threat of flooding. This information comes from the nonstopnews agency, with inmates expected to be relocated to temporary shelters in Landsberg, Kempten, and Augsburg. The source highlighted the rising water volume of the Memminger Ach as a primary concern, as it has swelled to a menacing level and threatens to inundate the JVA. Portions of the prison's courtyard are already submerged. Preventing an imminent power outage, the administration opted for the evacuation. Police forces have implemented an evacuation strategy, relying on emergency vehicles to assist in moving the inmates. The fire department used pumps to extract water from the prison. The evacuation progressed, despite partial flooding of the access road.
17:35 Rising water levels in Swabia - Level 4 at some locations
Intense rain has contributed to rising water levels across Swabia. The HND reports several pegs in Lower Bavaria and the Upper Palatinate displaying water columns at level 4, while the riverego stage in Dasing (Paar) is projected to rise to level 4 soon. These conditions indicate the breakdown of a century's worth of rainfall. The pegs in Neu-Ulm Bad Held (Danube), Hasberg (Mindel), Fleinhausen (Zusam), Fischach (Schmutter), and Regen in Cham have reached level 4. Additionally, the Fischach (Schmutter) and Regen in Cham are expected to reach level 4.
17:23 Munich Airport flight operations continuous despite adverse weather
In spite of significant rainfall creating challenging conditions in many regions of Bavaria, flight operations at Munich Airport remain active. Not a single flight has been canceled, for a multitude of factors. Airport spokesperson Robert Wilhelm confirmed that the outer grounds contain visible standing water, but the fact that the airport is elevated above the rest of the land minimizes the impact significantly. Both runways exhibit sunken edges that promote effective water drainage, in addition to possessing "grooved" surfaces which enhance the water drainage process. Consequently, aquaplaning is of non-concern, as indicated by Wilhelm, relieving any immediate threat at Munich Airport.
17:07 Söder: "The real action has begun now"
Minister President of Bavaria, Markus Söder, has expressed optimism and excitement about the current movement toward successfully managing the escalating weather situation. Reflecting on the swift response of rescue efforts and the preparation of officials and organizations, he believes the actions taken indicate a critical shift in addressing the issue. The extent to which the situation can be effectively managed will soon become evident, according to Söder.
Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder is assessing the dire situation in Swabia, a region heavily impacted by the ongoing crisis. He appreciates the assistance provided by helpers and local authorities during his visit to Diedorf, an area in the Augsburg district. According to Söder, Bavaria has endured multiple challenges, but the present circumstance is an "extreme burden" for residents. "This isn't over yet," he stresses, implying that things are about to intensify. The focal point of the storm lies in Swabia, leading to the gathering of necessary resources like sandbags in the area. Söder extends his gratitude to the rescue services, including the fire department, Bavarian Red Cross, police, and Technical Relief Organization, for their remarkable dedication. To the citizens, he urges, "Please adhere to the guidelines." Obey potential evacuation orders, resist the urge to reenter your basement, and refrain from attempting to drive your vehicle from the garage.
16:35 No more trains
The storms and flooding in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria have disrupted train service in Southern Germany. Deutsche Bahn, Germany's national railway, has announced cancellations and disruptions on various lines. Two ICE (InterCity Express) lines are notably impacted: one connecting Munich, Bregenz, and Zurich will be inactive all day on Saturday, while the other linking Ulm and Augsburg is affected as well. Other cancellations, delays, and track closures are updated on the Bahn website.
16:12 Disaster situation in Unterallgäu – Hang a white cloth if you require assistance
The disaster situation now includes the Bavarian district of Unterallgäu. The mobile phone network has failed in Babenhausen, a town within the district. Any residents in need of help and unable to make an emergency call should place a white sheet or cloth outside their window or, if possible, make themselves noticeable by the window. For evacuations in Babenhausen, inflatable boats are being used to transport inhabitants from their residences.
15:57 400 THW personnel deploying in South Germany
The Technical Relief Organization (THW) has mobilized close to 400 personnel to handle the storms in South Germany. The THW in Bonn reports this, stating they're responsible for pumping water, dam safety, and evacuations beforehand. In preparation for potential flooding in the coming hours, additional THW forces remain on standby. Each relief group consists of about 40 THW members, who utilize three sewage pumps, a power generator, an exploration vehicle, and a command post. These groups can pump up to 30,000 liters of water per minute.
15:37 View all flood warnings on a single map
This interactive map showcases all current flood warnings. The map is regularly updated for reference: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=14B5O_4z0n0GX9c5139Zr-XI45g8X65126qFjW-0X1-j0Z5D
15:15 Report: A climber group of 26 members trapped below Zugspitze summit
A group of 26 mountain climbers is reported to be stranded several hundred meters below the Zugspitze peak. According to BR, 60 centimeters of new snow have accumulated on the Zugspitze in the past few hours as it rains incessantly in the valley. Temperatures are freezing, while visibility is poor at 100 meters. Multiple rescue teams have been deployed to locate the climbers amidst the blizzard. The group is likely fatigued and possibly underprepared for such severe weather conditions. It is unknown why they attempted to climb the Zugspitze in spite of the weather forecast.
14:52 Donau-Ries District declares a disaster zone
The Donau-Ries District in Bavaria has declared a disaster situation to mobilize resources effectively and expedite preparations for anticipated water levels. District Administrator Stefan Roßle comments in a statement, "It's crucial to maintain calm and steer clear of low-lying areas as much as you can."
14:20 Dam breach near Augsburg – Preparing for evacuation
A burst dam and a breached dike in central Augsburg's Swabian region have prompted authorities to instruct some citizens to evacuate certain areas. Augsburg's Landratsamt notes that it's now unsafe to simply move to higher floors, as a dam collapsed in Burgwalden and a dike in Anhausen failed, rendering homes in those areas inundated. These individuals are expected to vacate their homes within the hour and relocate to Augsburg's Diedorf Schmuttertalhalle. The Landratsamt also advises people to avoid railway underpasses, as these locations may become inundated. The danger to life is significant.
Soeder and Herrmann visit the flooded area
Minister President of Bavaria Markus Soeder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann are travelling to the flooded region in Augsburg's Swabian area on Saturday. The purpose of their visit is to observe the current situation in Diedorf, as per the Interior Ministry's announcement. District Administrator Martin Sailer will accompany the two CSU officials. The location of their visit has been changed at the last minute due to ongoing developments. The officers had initially planned to visit the similarly-affected Fischach. Presently, Diedorf is organizing an evacuation of residents. The flood situation is particularly dire in Swabia, with water levels rising swiftly. Two more districts—Günzburg and Aichach-Friedberg—have declared states of emergency.
Meckenbeuren's flood situation remains serious
The rising floodwaters of Meckenbeuren's Schussen River in the Bodenseekreis are causing concern. By midday, the water level was given as 4.72 meters, with the town's spokesperson predicting that the peak should be reached soon. In comparison, during the past flood in 2021, the river's level reached 4.50 meters. Ordinarily, it only supports 45 centimeters of water. To curb potential damage from the rising waters, evacuations of approximately 1300 people were preemptively ordered on Friday evening. The majority of citizens chose to find shelter with friends or relatives, while a small number opted for the emergency shelter. Preemptive measures were also taken to clear out schools, kindergartens, and halls. In this municipality of 14,000 inhabitants, various bridges were also closed as a precaution.
Read also:
The International Red Cross has mobilized resources to provide aid in the flood-affected regions along the Danube, with a focus on the affected areas in Bavaria. Following the discovery of the woman's body, the live ticker now shows a potential second surge of the Danube flood approaching the levels seen in 2002. The Shaft Creek Dam in Upper Bavaria, which feeds into the Danube, is showing signs of instability and could potentially fail, adding to the flood situation.
