Boiling water is mandatory in certain designated areas at 15:52.
The health department at the Landratsamt Donau-Ries has widened their recommendation for boiling water before consumption due to the prolonged flood situation. Originally, the directive pertained solely to Mertingen and Oberndorf, but it now applies to the following areas: Eggelstetten, Genderkingen, Bäumenheim, Heißesheim, Überfeldsiedlung, Asbach-Bäumenheim, Hamlar, and the Kaisheimer districts of Sulzdorf and Gunzenheim.
At 15:27, the German Weather Service (DWD) has issued a severe weather warning for the central and eastern Alpine foothills. This area expects significant thunderstorms, heavy rainfall of 40-60 liters per square meter within six hours, wind speeds up to 60 kilometers per hour, and small hailstones. The regions of Upper Bavaria, including the District of Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen, District of Berchtesgaden, District of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, District of Miesbach, District of Rosenheim, District of Traunstein, District of Weilheim-Schongau, and the city of Rosenheim, are expected to be impacted.
At 15:08, two fatalities have been reported in Baden-Württemberg as a result of the flooding. A man and a woman were found deceased in a house in Schorndorf, in the Rems-Murr region. This brings the death toll from the recent floods in South Germany up to four, as two deaths had already occurred in Bavaria earlier.
From 14:52, emergency services in South Germany have been working tirelessly to combat the flood situation. The Technical Relief Organization Donauwörth fills 2000 sandbags hourly, local volunteers of the DLRG are extracting people from flooded homes in Günzburg, and efforts in Bavaria are running at full capacity. Rest is not an option for many.
In Rudersberg, Baden-Württemberg, water masses have swept away cars, including one that ended up on a well. Local roads are saturated with household items. Debris has accumulated on a bridge, and the town in the Rems-Murr district is heavily affected by the ongoing flooding.
Since residents in Niederalteich, Bavaria, experienced a flood disaster ten years ago, repairs to the Donau dams have not been finished at one of the sections. Consequently, the dam currently threatens to rupture.
At 13:40, traffic on the partially obstructed Autobahn 9 due to a dam break in Upper Bavaria has been reopened, but a form of traffic control has been implemented southbound between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck. Currently, only 300 vehicles can travel from Ingolstadt-South to Langenbruck. The police spokesperson's reason for this is unclear. Driving on the A9 towards Nuremberg has been open since the morning, a reminder that "this can all change again!" is broadcast.
During his visit to the flood-affected area of Bavaria, Chancellor Olaf Scholz urges solidarity. "Nature's forces are immense," the SPD leader states in Reichertshofen, south of Ingolstadt, noting that assistance from the federal government has been provided. Multiple emergency services are present on-site, with the Bundeswehr included. Scholz thanks all helpers, recalling a firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty. Increasingly, major flood incidents are occurring due to climate change. Scholz has currently visited aid zones four times this year.
The fire department has come to the rescue of an 81-year-old tourist stuck in the flood in the Upper Palatinate. The man driven his car onto a flooded street in the market town of Hahnbach, near Nuremberg, to view the Vils' flood. However, his vehicle got stuck, and the water continued to rise. The driver escaped onto his car's roof through the sunroof and called for help. A passerby informed the police, and the fire department arrived promptly in a specialized vehicle, rescuing the car and passenger from the water.
At 12:50, a tourist stuck in the flood near Nuremberg is safely rescued by the fire department. The 81-year-old had driven into the flooded street of the Upper Palatine market town of Hahnbach to observe the rising Vils river close up. Although he was unharmed, his vehicle became trapped in the water. With time running out, he climbed out through his car's sunroof and sought assistance. A passerby alerted the police, who dispatched a fire department crew with a specialized vehicle. The firefighters successfully extricated the stranded car and tourist from the rising water.
At 12:25, a cruise ship has become stranded on the Danube. An emergency evacuation has begun.
At Deggendorf, the evacuation of a Danube cruise ship is underway. The ship carrying 150 passengers from the US and England cannot continue its journey on the Danube due to the flood. According to the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation (BR), a workboat is docking at the harbor to take 25-30 people ashore at a time.
The water level of the Danube is rising, and it's expected to reach similar levels as the 2002 flood. This is evident, for example, when the Isar flows into the Danube in Deggendorf. The Danube, with a length of 2850 kilometers, is the second-longest river in Europe. In Passau, a water level of 10.80 meters was measured on August 13, 2002, at the Ilzstadt measuring point. On Monday morning, the value was 7.77 meters with a rising trend. NTV weather expert Paul Heger provides an overview of the tense flood situation and a look at the dangers for the coming days: https://www.ntv.de/nachrichten/deutschland/hochwasser-in-bayern-und-baden-wuerttemberg-aktuell-100.html
12:00 Donau flood similar to 2002 - will likely give "second wave"
11:27: Body found in flooded cellar in Schrobenhausen
Rescue teams have discovered a body in the flooded cellar of a house in the hard-hit Oberbayern town of Schrobenhausen. The victim is a 43-year-old woman who's been missing since Sunday, according to a police spokesperson.
11:21: Water levels of Rems and Murr are rising - Nursing home evacuated
Despite decreasing rainfall, authorities in the Ludwigsburg district anticipate an urgent danger and further rising water levels. "Even though there's no heavy rainfall at the moment, we still expect an increase in the water levels of Rems and Murr," says District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier. In Remseck, the peak level of the Rems hasn't been reached yet. The command center is monitoring the situation and coordinating emergency response teams. About 250 firefighters are working. On Monday morning, a nursing home in Steinheim an der Murr was evacuated. The residents were taken to other homes.
10:54: Upper Rhine closed for inland shipping
Due to heavy rainfall, Germany's most prominent waterway, the Rhine, is closed for inland shipping. "Shipping on the Upper Rhine has been suspended," says a WSA spokesperson. "Critical levels have been exceeded at the gauge stations." The affected areas include Maxau near Karlsruhe, Mannheim, and Worms. At the Middle Rhine - i.e., the area between Mainz and Bonn - closures could occur on Tuesday or Wednesday. "Regarding the current forecasts, these should not be too long," says the spokesperson. The closures aim to prevent damage to the banks caused by the ships' waves. The ships generate waves that can overflow the banks and flood cellars, for example.
10:27: North Rhine-Westphalia sends helpers and boats to the Bavarian flood area
North Rhine-Westphalia is sending five water rescue vehicles with 48 helpers, ten vehicles, eight trailers, and six boats to the flood area in Landau an der Isar in Bavaria. According to the Düsseldorf Interior Ministry, the Free State of Bavaria accepted the aid offer on Sunday evening. The rescuers were then sent out.
10:04: Evacuations in Ebersbach an der Fils
In the heavily affected community of Ebersbach an der Fils south of Stuttgart, residents of several streets are being evacuated to safety. The number of people affected cannot be determined immediately by a city spokeswoman. The residents had already been warned and asked to pack their documents and essentials. In light of the flood situation, all schools and municipal kindergartens are closed today as announced on the city's Facebook page.
09:41: Ongoing search for a 43-year-old woman in Schrobenhausen
The police in Schrobenhausen, in the Landkreis Pfaffenhofen, are still searching for a missing woman using a helicopter and divers. Initially, it was reported in the night that the 43-year-old had been found dead. However, the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation has since corrected this information, and the search for the woman is ongoing. Because divers couldn't enter the flooded cellar of the house the day before, pumps are now being used in the building, as per a police spokesperson. The objective is to locate the 43-year-old, who was last seen in her cellar. NTV reporter Niklas Diemer provides updates from the scene regarding the tense situation:
Markus Söder, Prime Minister of Bavaria, estimates that floods will continue to commandeer disaster control units in the state for several additional days. During a Deutschlandfunk conversation on Monday, he stated, "It's improving somewhat, but we can't issue a complete warning." Even if it stops raining, water levels of major rivers will still increase due to incoming waters. The majority of people predict this situation will continue until Wednesday or Thursday.
08:41 Third dam failure in Pfaffenhofen District
The dam of the Paar River in the Upper Bavarian Pfaffenhofen district has now collapsed at three separate points. An administrator for the district confirmed the news. In the affected regions of Baar-Ebenhausen and Manching, all residents are requested to move from the ground floors of their homes and apartments to higher floors. Around 800 individuals were evacuated in Baar-Ebenhausen. Roughly 250 people affected by this were accommodated in the Grund- and Mittelschule Reichertshofen. The Paar is a tributary that flows into the Danube. In Vohburg, the Danube is being monitored more closely, and safety procedures are being implemented. The A9 motorway remains closed on both sides between Ingolstadt and Langenbruck, as per information.
https://www.ntv.de/nachrichten/deutschland/hochwasser-in-bayern-und-baden-wuerttemberg-aktuell-100.html
08:21 Dam in Manching collapses
Another dam has broken in Manching-Pichl, a district in Pfaffenhofen, according to several outlets that cite the district administration. Residents are prompted to promptly depart from the ground floors of their homes and apartments and retreat to the higher floors. Streets like Benediktstraße, Martinstraße, and Peterstraße in the affected areas are mentioned.
08:01 Firefighters in Rudersberg overwhelmed by rising waters
In Rudersberg, Baden-Württemberg's Rems-Murr district, even firefighters were caught off guard by the rapidly increasing water, a reporter from ntv witnessing the situation shared. The firefighters were forced to abandon a rescue mission when they tried to save residents. The firefighters were able to save themselves by climbing onto the upper stories of the buildings and remained there for several hours. The fire station also flooded, according to the fire department. Vehicles were driven to a raised area, which was submerged minutes later. Two vehicles couldn't be retrieved.
07:39 Disaster situation declared in Regensburg
The Danube's water level is still rising, compelling Regensburg to declare a disaster situation. The water level at the Eisernen Brücke measuring station reached 5.90 meters, the Bavarian flood alert service disclosed. On Tuesday, the average measurement ranged around 2.70 meters. Experts inform that 6.82 meters were measured during the previous significant flood on June 4, 2013.
07:20 Helicopter aids rescue of family in Günzburg
Water rescue specialists from the Wasserwacht saved twelve individuals from balconies and rooftops in Günzburg using a police helicopter, the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation (BR) reported. In one case, a family with three children endured rescue. The water masses made a rescue by boat unmattainable.
06:50 Possible dam failure in Manching
The Integrated Control Center Ingolstadt warns that a dam near Manching, in the Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen, may collapse. People are asked to reside in upper floors and avoid basements and underground garages. In the neighboring district of Baar-Ebenhausen, a flood breached the dam on Sunday.
06:16 Evacuations in Uhingen due to flooding
The predicament in the Ostalbkreis of Baden-Württemberg has grown more critical due to floods. Residents were evacuated from certain parts of Leinzell, Heuchlingen, and Göggingen late Sunday to Monday. According to a spokeswoman for the crisis staff, the entire community of Täferrot must leave. The town was flooded in the morning. Around 250 to 300 people were relocated to secure locations.
05:33 Evacuations in Ostalbkreis due to floods
The condition in the Ostalbkreis of Baden-Württemberg has become even more perilous due to the floods. People were evacuated from sections of Leinzell, Heuchlingen, and Göggingen overnight on Monday. A spokesperson for the crisis team stated that all of Täferrot needed to be evacuated. The floodwater had already reached Täferrot by morning. Between 250 and 300 people have been moved to secure sites.
5:13 Baden-Württemberg sends aid to flood-stricken Bavaria
Due to the ongoing flood disaster, the state of Baden-Württemberg is sending aid to the neighboring region of Günzburg in Bavaria. The Interior Ministry of Baden-Württemberg has sent three "Sanitation and Care" units to the district as a response to a request from Bavaria. The relief teams will provide care and support for people who had to leave their homes and houses due to the floods. Additionally, a water rescue vehicle from Ulm will be sent to Günzburg to assist in the evacuation process.
4:30 Esslingen constructs makeshift dam to prevent flooding
The city of Esslingen am Neckar is building a temporary dam to protect against predicted flooding in parts of the inner city. The city reports that the peak is expected early in the morning, and there is a possibility of the canals in the inner city area being flooded. Overnight and during the morning of Monday, approximately 1,500 tons of stone and sand will be piled up near the so-called "Wasserhaus" on a canal. There may be traffic disruptions in the area surrounding the construction site. The city had already cautioned against entering basements and underground garages in the inner city and Oberesslingen due to the flood situation.
3:26 Ebersbach prepares residents for evacuations as water levels rise
The heavily affected town of Ebersbach an der Fils south of Stuttgart has prepared some residents from specific streets for potential evacuations. The people are being advised to gather important documents and essentials to spend the night away from home. The fire department of Ebersbach will be reaching out to the residents, according to an announcement made on Facebook early Monday morning. They should wait in the upper floors of their homes.
3:11 Weather warnings lifted - heavy rain in southern Germany possible
The German Weather Service (DWD) has lifted all severe weather warnings for Germany, which were related to heavy thunderstorms with heavy rain. However, there may still be localized heavy rain showers in southern Germany with the potential for heavy rain. Areas south of the Danube and the Bavarian Forest are expected to be affected from noon onwards. Small areas could experience thunderstorms.
2:04 Augsburg authorities urge people to avoid flood zones
Flood tourists are causing distress for rescue teams in the County of Augsburg. Helpers are busy with the rescue of people who, despite warnings, went to dikes, underpasses, and water bodies. To help relieve the rescue teams, people are asked to avoid these areas. "Flood waves can surprise you and the bank can collapse," the authorities warn. Drivers and pedestrians should also avoid flooded streets and flooded underpasses. The pressure in the canals could push up cover plates, which could suck people in.
1:14 Kretschmann and Strobl to visit flood-hit areas in Baden-Württemberg
The President of Baden-Württemberg, Winfried Kretschmann, and the Interior Minister, Thomas Strobl, will visit two flood-affected regions in the state on Monday. They plan to visit Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis in the morning and then Erbach in the Alb-Donau-Kreis. A spokesperson for the state government confirmed this. Kretschmann had decided not to visit the site during the acute situation, as he said: "I myself have chosen not to visit the site at this critical moment, where every hand is needed and every sandbag can make a difference, but to remain informed and closely monitor the situation." The rescue teams are under immense strain, he stated on Sunday afternoon.
23:50 Ebersbach an der Fils declares total alert - Sound barrier breached
In the city of Ebersbach an der Fils near Stuttgart, a total alert was declared on Sunday evening due to the flood. This means that all firefighters are on duty. At Federal Highway 10, water masses have broken through a sound barrier and flooded the road, as shown in a video shared by the city on their Facebook page. The population is being told to stay indoors (sic!) and avoid emergency sites. There is a risk to life, as is evident from the video. People should not go into their basements, and they should stay on the upper floors.
23:16 43-year-old missing person found dead in basement (corrected: The 43-year-old is still being searched for)
As a result of the storm in South Germany, there is another victim: A 43-year-old missing person was found dead in a basement. Bayerlicher Rundfunk initially reported that a woman had been found dead. However, the report has since been corrected, stating that the 43-year-old is still being searched for.
(c) ABC News
22:16 Lightning damages signal box - Disruption in regional train traffic around DresdenDue to a signal box malfunction caused by a lightning strike, the regional train service was disrupted in the Dresden area during the evening. In particular, the regional train from Dresden to Bautzen and Görlitz was impacted, as mentioned by a representative from the railway company. At 5:10 pm, the signal box in Radeberg, east of the Saxon capital, was struck by lightning. It was expected to be repaired in the evening. After approximately two hours, the trains were running normally once more, according to the representative.
22:00 Nursing home in Lauingen evacuated due to floodA nursing home located close to the Danube in the Swabian town of Lauingen was being evacuated due to flooding. The city's website stated that the goal was to ensure the ongoing care of the residents. All residents of the nursing home were lodged and cared for in an educational center.
21:30 Dam ruptured: Evacuation necessary in regions between the Danube and the SchmutterSeveral settlements near the Danube and the Schmutter in the Swabian district of Donau-Ries were forced to evacuate. The district office in Donauwörth cited the significant dam break as the reason. The affected areas include Auchsesheim and Heißesheim, parts of Nordheim, Mertingen, Asbach-Bäumenheim, and Urfahrhof. The authorities urged residents to remain calm, gather necessary belongings, and adhere to the instructions of emergency personnel. Notebooks were also being prepared.
21:03 Faeser joins Scholz in tour of Bavarian flood regionFollowing the flooding of more areas in South Germany, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser travel to the Bavarian flood region on Monday. They planned to view the situation alongside Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder and State Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann in Reichertshofen in the Upper Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm. The head of the Technical Relief Service, Sabine Lackner, was anticipated to be present at the meeting as well.
20:30 Numerous schools will shut down on Monday due to flood situation. At least 40 schools across Bavaria will not convene in-person classes during the upcoming week. The Bavarian Ministry of Education announced that this includes districts like Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Aichach-Friedberg, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Freising, Fůrstenfeldbruck, Dachau, Dillingen, and Augsburg. In Aichach-Friedberg, for example, all Grund-, Mittel-, and Realschulen, as well as the local gymnasiums, vocational and professional high schools, and special education centers, will not hold classes on Monday. In Wertingen, located in the Dillingen district, all schools will be closed. In addition, several schools in the Pfaffenhofen district will not convene on Monday. According to the Pfaffenhofen district administration, some kindergartens will also remain shut on Monday. On Monday and Tuesday, face-to-face classes at Grund-, Mittel-, and Realschulen in Schrobenhausen, along with the vocational school, special education center, and gymnasium, will be canceled.
19:49 Over 30 Swabian towns plagued by power outagesApproximately 30 towns in Swabia, Germany, are experiencing partial or complete power outages. The local utility company, LEW, reported this issue, noting that there were additional outages within low-voltage networks in specific streets and homes. Outages primarily affected the districts of Günzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen. "Our emergency crews strive to restore power supply by switching to alternate lines, depending on the current situation," the power company remarked. The duration of each outage hinges upon the specific site conditions.
19:11 Over 1,000 people from Günzburg relocated to sports halls and LegolandThe district administrator of Günzburg, Hans Reichart, shared that more than 1,000 residents had been relocated to safety due to the rising levels of the Günz River. In Günzburg, Bavaria, people were being housed in sports facilities and, in part, at Legoland. Further evacuation measures were required due to the swelling Günz River levels in the preceding hours.
18:42 German Weather Service anticipates more excessive rain in the southThe German Meteorological Service (DWD) issued a warning for even heavier rainfall, primarily in southern Germany. The meteorologists at the Offenbach office forecasted potential "extreme rainfall" in the Stuttgart area in the early evening on Sunday, with further heavy rain expected in the Black Forest, Swabian Alb, and the Alpine foothills near the Bavarian Forest. Additionally, they anticipated showers in the Alpine foothills south of the Danube on Monday morning, as well as thunderstorms with possible heavy rain thereafter, particularly in the Bavarian Forest. The likelihood of up to 40 liters of rain per square meter per hour remained a concern.
5:07 Disaster Declared in Straubing
Straubing's mayor, Markus Pannermayr, has announced a disaster due to the worsening flood situation along the Danube. The situation has become complicated, with high demands and a need for extensive manpower. The Danube's water level has reached over six meters in Straubing, and the city expects the disaster level to surpass level 4 soon. The flood warning service has four levels of warning, with level 1 indicating minor flooding and level 4 implying large areas being flooded. Protective measures are being implemented, and some streets have already been closed.
16:34 In Meckenbeuren, Community Warns Against Flood Tourism
The partially flooded Bodenseekreis community of Meckenbeuren warns against flood tourism. People visiting the flooded area could hinder emergency services and endanger themselves and others, according to the community in Friedrichshafen. The Schussen river crossed its banks on Saturday evening, flooding streets and houses in the districts of Kehlen and Brochenzell. Authorities urge Sunday walkers to avoid the flood area, respect bridge and road closures, and stay away from the life-threatening current.
16:11 Thunderstorms Pose a Threat in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree District
The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued a warning for heavy thunderstorms in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree district. This warned of a second-highest level threat until Sunday afternoon, encompassing the possibility of lightning strikes, uprooted trees, high winds, and falling objects. There was also a risk of damage to houses, landslides, and hail.
15:53 Further Districts Declare Disasters
Due to the flooding, districts of Dachau and Kelheim have also declared disasters. The districts' administrators, Martin Neumeyer and Stefan Löwl, emphasized the need for coordination and equipping their relief efforts as well as possible. Both noted that the local forces were unable to manage the numerous emergency sites, making outside assistance necessary.
15:25 Train Restrictions Expected on Monday
The Deutsche Bahn has extended its leniency policy regarding train travel, allowing those who bought tickets for Sunday to Monday to change their plans due to the meteorological situation. It remains uncertain how the traffic will be affected on Monday but passengers are cautioned against traveling in areas in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg affected by the flooding.
15:08 Around 3,000 People in Bavaria Affected by Evacuations
A spokeswoman for the Bavarian Interior Ministry in Munich reports that around 3,000 people have been impacted by evacuations due to the floods in Bavaria. More than 20,000 forces are currently engaged in the response, with around 40,000 involved since the situation began.
14:51 Weather Expert's Perspective: "Each drop is too much."
Bernd Fuchs, an ntv weather expert, can't rule out that the flood situation in the south will improve. "Every drop is too much," he stresses. Asked about a connection with the climate crisis, Fuchs sees the current situation as evidence of the "clear direction we're heading."
14:22 Shocking Accident: Man Suffers Severe Electric Shock While Working in the Floods
A 27-year-old employee of an energy company sustained a severe electric shock while working in the floods in the Upper Bavarian district of Freising. Police from Upper Bavaria North confirmed the incident, reporting that the man was rescued from a flooded area near Allershausen town hall and transported via rescue helicopter to a hospital. The incident appears to be work-related.
15:02 River shipping suspended on Upper Rhine
Rainfall in South Germany has led to high water levels along the Rhine, halting river transportation in certain areas. A section of the Upper Rhine by Karlsruhe has banned ships from sailing since Saturday, according to the Rhineland-Palatinate High Water Forecasting Center. Maximiliansau's water level reached 7.50 meters, the critical shipping water level, on Saturday evening. By Sunday afternoon, it had risen to 8.20 meters, anticipated to decrease slightly at night. Nonetheless, further increase in water levels is predicted downstream: in Mannheim, Worms, and Mainz. On the Middle and Lower Rhine, elevated water levels may endanger shipping on this vital waterway. The Koblenz gauge anticipates reaching around 6.10 meters on Tuesday, beyond which ships cannot sail. On Wednesday, the highest levels are expected in Cologne and Dusseldorf.
14:38 Autobahn A9 closed for 50 kilometers in stretch
The 50-kilometer stretch of Autobahn A9 between Allershausen and Ingolstadt is closed due to a dam break in Landkreis Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm. A representative from Upper Bavaria North Police Department communicated that this was an unprecedented scenario for the police in this area. Additionally, power outages are reported. Many people are affected. Attempts are underway to resolve the issue. The district administration directed individuals from the municipalities of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching to evacuate their ground floors and relocate to the higher floors in their dwellings and apartments.
Update 15:23 p.m.: According to Autobahn GmbH, the segment between Ingolstadt-Süd and Langenbruck is closed in both directions. Also, the segment between Pfaffenhofen and Neufahrn interchange is severely restricted. It is advised to bypass the entire area. Additional constraints, owing to flooding, apply on the A8 in Munich's Sulzemoos area.
13:59 Economy Minister Habeck connects heavy rain to climate change
Economy Minister Robert Habeck endorses more climate protection endeavors following South Germany's flood crisis. He notes during a Reichertshofen visit in Bavaria, "the containment of CO2 emissions, so we have enough time to adapt, should not be trivialized or suppressed, but is the top priority." The frequency of natural disasters serves as "a clear indicator that nature and climate are changing." Centennial floods now occur "every few years."
13:34 Chancellor Scholz to tour flood-affected areas on Monday
Chancellor Olaf Scholz plans to explore the flood-impacted regions on Monday to gain a firsthand understanding of the predicament. [The information is derived from government circles.]
13:21 Missing Firefighter after evacuation operation in Offingen
A 22-year-old firefighter disappeared following an evacuation operation in Offingen, Günzburg's district. This was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Schwaben Süd-West police department. The man was with a colleague from the voluntary fire department and three helpers from the DLRG in a boat for an evacuation around 02:50 a.m., when the boat overturned. Four of the helpers were rescued from the water, but the 22-year-old remained missing. He has been studied extensively since the early morning hours. Two helicopters are being used for the search. A 42-year-old firefighter has already succumbed in a flood operation.
13:11 No Respite: Continuous heavy rainfall
The new week brings no respite from consistent and heavy rainfall in the southern German flood zones. Björn Alexander, ntv weather meteorologist, notes, "the widespread and heavy rain is still present." Nevertheless, localized storm cells have emerged.
12:52 Dam breach risk looms over the Paar
The Paar river is at risk of another dam breach in communities like Rottmannshart, Westenhausen, Lindach, Ernsgaden, Irsching, and Knodorf in Pfaffenhofen district. Officials urge residents to promptly vacate their ground floors and move to the higher floors in their households and apartments. The ground floor and basement should be averted, according to authorities. In case of instant emergencies, residents should contact the fire department on the emergency number 112.
12:39 Söder: Over 40,000 emergency personnel for Bavaria flood response
Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder reveals that approximately 40,000 emergency personnel are active to handle the floods throughout the entire state of Bavaria. Söder explained during his Reichertshofen visit, "the most significant task now will be to manage relief operations efficiently in the next few hours." Those who have been working for a prolonged period must be relieved, indicated Söder, cautioning, "the longer you stay in the field without relief, the higher the risk of an error, of exhaustion. And then there's a greater risk to life and limb."
The water levels at Straubing's Donaupegel continue to rise, reaching the highest alert level of four by day's end, as per the HND Bavaria. To address this, dam guards will be positioned starting at 3 pm, with fire department personnel on-site monitoring the dam and reporting both the water levels and any damages. Additionally, more sandbags are being filled.
12:03 Baar-Ebenhausen dam has burst, warning issued for nearby communities of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching. All residents on the ground floor are asked to evacuate immediately.
11:37 Olaf Scholz, German Chancellor, displays gratitude and respect to the rescuers and helpers in regions hit by the floods. He expresses his sorrow upon learning of a firefighter's death during rescue operations in Pfaffenhofen: "The death of a firefighter in Pfaffenhofen has left me with a heavy heart. My thoughts are with his colleagues and family."
11:25 Catholic Day in Erfurt closes with Georg Bätzing wishing the flood-affected safety. "May the human lives be preserved," he says in front of Erfurt Cathedral.
10:59 Meckenbeuren, Bodenseekreis, witnesses streets flooded due to rising Schussen river. A spokesperson for the municipality states that the water levels are starting to fall, but they're still critical. Approximately 1300 residents have already chosen to evacuate.
10:34 Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder acknowledges the contribution of the deceased firefighter who died during a rescue operation in the region. "His dedication to humanity will be remembered," Söder says on Twitter. "Our deepest condolences to his fellow firefighters. This loss is heartbreaking."
10:09 Due to heavy rainfall, training of Ukraine's football team is relocated from Nuremberg to Erlangen. The team's final practice before their match against the German national team is done at a different venue due to the precarious state of Max-Morlock-Stadion.
9:52 Multiple interventions for flooding in Munich, the fire department dispatched to over 290 incidents since 6 am Saturday. With most tasks involving pumps for basements and underground garages, trees uprooted, and streets closed, level 2 of the Isar's flood warning has been surpassed.
9:24 The flood situation in Anhausen starts to ease, with evacuated residents gradually returning to their homes. Nevertheless, other areas remain in critical danger.
9:08 The THW is recruiting additional responders to the flooded regions in southern Germany. Over 1,800 helpers are currently deployed, assisting with securing dams, filling sandbags, and assisting in evacuations.
8:47 With heavy rain continuing, the situation in southern Germany remains concerning. The potential for a century-old flood in eastern Baden-Württemberg is a pressing issue, and rescue teams are stretched thin.
8:30 Plans to recover an ICE train following a landslide in eastern Baden-Württemberg are being made, as the rescue efforts continue. Meanwhile, ongoing floods and landslides have become unbearable for residents and responders.
8:12 In Landshut, water levels reached a height of 8.18 meters, forcing widespread evacuations. The area is currently under an exceptional flood warning, with authorities concerned about the river's rising levels.
8:08 Regensburg will not host a planned folk festival due to the flood threat, as police and emergency workers deal with the worsening situation. The city is now under flood warning, and the potential destruction of Parish Church's historic organs is a significant concern for locals.
8:03 Rescue operations continue in Bad Abbach, where a burst dike has caused heavy flooding. A state of emergency has been declared, leading to evacuations and significant property damage.
7:45 A multi-agency effort is underway in eastern Baden-Württemberg to address the threat of a 100-year flood, with numerous collaborators from the fire department, THW, police, and the military helping in relief and rescue efforts.
At Schwäbisch Gmünd in Baden-Württemberg, a landslide-affected ICE is set to be recovered in the morning. The debris has halted the progress of a regional train, reveals a representative. To offer assistance in the recovery process, a rescue locomotive stationed on the second track of the route has been enlisted. The exact duration of the interruption has yet to be established. Meanwhile, the regional train has successfully made its way past the ICE. Over the weekend, two ICE carriages carrying 185 passengers derailed due to a landslide in Schwaebisch Gmuend.
08:16: A Person is Missing in Schrobenhausen
In Schrobenhausen, there's been a report of a missing person. The individual is said to have been in the basement of a house when the flooding began. As per a district office spokesman, the basement and sections of the upper floor are now submerged. Unfortunately, rescue teams are unable to access the house at present.
07:44: A Firefighter Perishes in Floods in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria
Regrettably, a firefighter from Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria, has lost his life during a flood intervention, according to a district administration spokesman. He was taking part in a quick response mission using a rescue boat when it capsized, and his body was discovered the next morning.
07:29: Shifting Floods - Multiple Level 4 Alerts
In Bavaria, level 4 flood warnings are in effect at several gauges. The main focus remains on the southern tributaries of Günz, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, Paar, Abens, Ilm, and Amper, along with the upper Danube. According to the flood information service, the peak was achieved at night. The center of gravity then shifts downstream - from Swabia towards Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate. Places such as Neuburg, Kelheim, Regensburg, and Straubing may be impacted, but the peak wave is anticipated to pass through early in the week. Expected water level increases on Sunday at Mühlried in the Schrobenhausen district and in Manching and Geisenfeld in Upper Bavaria, as well as Abensberg in the Kelheim district.
06:54: Weather Service Predicts More Severe Thunderstorms in the South
Conditions in many parts of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg are likely to witness additional severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall on Sunday, as per the German Weather Service (DWD) forecast. Thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain are predicted to occur between twelve noon and Monday night. This might result in flooded streets and cellars. There's also a probability of damage due to lightning strikes.
05:39: Augsburg District Intensifies Evacuation Calls
Evacuation orders are being extended in the flooded areas of the Bavarian Augsburg district. Residents of Kühlenthal and Allmannshofen are being urged to leave at once, warns the integrated control center at dawn. Shuttle buses will be provided for people incapable of leaving the areas on their own. Furthermore, evacuation notices were issued in the district on Saturday evening and through the night. Predominantly affected are communities bordering the Schmutter River, a Danube tributary.
05:05: Wiesbaden Strengthens Flood Preparations
In Wiesbaden, authorities are implementing flood defenses against rising river levels on the Rhine and Main. In the district of Kostheim, a floodwall has been erected, reports the fire department. In the Schierstein Rhine-facing district, a pump has been installed. People are being advised to avoid parking lots next to the river in the coming days, the fire department adds. There's currently no indication that further measures will be required.
04:04: Train Traffic Between Stuttgart and Munich Suspended
Due to a landslide in the town of Schwäbisch Gmünd, Baden-Württemberg, long-distance train service between Stuttgart and Munich has been halted. A railway spokesperson declines to speculate on how long the line will remain shuttered in the early hours. The landslide has blocked the bypass between Aalen and Stuttgart, while the route between Ulm and Augsburg was previously closed due to flooding in southern Germany. Consequently, long-distance trains were re-routed.
03:13: THW Fills 30,000 Sandbags in Ulm
In a nocturnal operation, technical emergency responders (THW) from Ulm have assembled thousands of sandbags destined for flooded and flood-vulnerable regions in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. 30,000 sandbags are set to be dispatched on Sunday morning, shares Bernd Urban, head of the THW Logistics Center. "Presently, we're able to fill 400 sandbags per hour." Requests for these sandbags have originated from various districts of southwest Germany and neighboring states as well. Persistent rainfall has led to considerably elevated water levels in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria at certain locations.
01:25 Red Cross Deploys Water Rescues to GünzburgThe Bavarian Red Cross has dispatched its water rescue team from Unterfranken to help with the relief efforts in Swabia. The team is expected to be deployed in Günzburg's most affected district, where floodwaters have reached levels considered to be a hundred-year flood. The Unterfranken water rescue unit includes two boat and diving teams, who are specially trained for flood situations. In this specific district, several bodies of water have risen to the 100-year flood levels.
00:27 Train Accident in Schwäbisch Gmünd Caused by Landslide
Two carriages of an ICE train carrying 185 passengers experienced a derailment in the German town of Schwäbisch Gmünd following a landslide. The passengers thankfully remained unscathed, and they are being evacuated from the train. The incident happened around 11:20 pm, and the first two carriages came off the tracks but did not tip over. The landslide measured approximately 30 meters in width. The train passengers are expected to be relocated to a nearby kindergarten and then transported to Plöderhausen by bus.
00:09 Car Crashes into Landslide in Schwäbisch Gmünd
A car drove into a landslide in the Baden-Württemberg town of Schwäbisch Gmünd. As of the latest report, its driver remains unharmed. This landslide occurred along a stretch of road where it parallels the railway. Schwäbisch Gmünd is approximately 50 kilometers east of Stuttgart. Apart from a day of excessive rainfall in Baden-Württemberg since Friday, no other details are available yet.
23:54 Floodvert Berlin Damages Neu-Ulm
Neu-Ulm overcame its high water mark on the Danube and Iller, as per the city's administration estimate. Avoiding the feared hundred-year flood is a relief, although the extent of damages is still unknown. "The situation will only become clear once things calm down," Mayor Katrin Albsteiger said in the evening. As of now, two streets, the Donau and Iller river banks, and the bike paths along the Danube and Iller are closed.
23:34 Munich: Dangers on the Isar River Bank
The Munich Fire Department has issued a warning about the potential risk that the Isar river bank poses due to the flooding. Two popular walking trails alongside the river are also closed. The river has reached flood level 2, which marks a flooding on non-built areas or traffic disruptions due to high water on the roads.
23:13 Emergency Evacuation Preparation in Schrobenhausen
In Schrobenhausen, Upper Bavaria, firefighters and rescuers are organizing to evacuate approximately 670 residents. They are employing bulldozers and boats to help people out of Mühldorf and a street along the Weilach River. With the district's administration establishing a citizen hotline for emergencies, the municipality has previously declared a disaster situation. The District Administrator, Peter von der Grün, states that the situation is particularly risky in the southern part of Upper Bavaria.
22:53 Multiple Interventions by Firefighters in East Thuringia
The downpour and thunderstorms in East Thuringia are requiring several fire department interventions. The Gera control center mentioned these ongoing interventions, with Ronneburg in the Greiz district being the main location affected. There, streets have been flooded, fields and cellars are flooded, and a small brook is overflowing. The Gera district is also experiencing this.
22:35 Rain Continues in Southern Germany - No Worries for Now
Although the weather has caused a lot of troubles in Southern Germany, the German Weather Service (DWD) has reported a slight reduction in the rainfall. A DWD meteorologist stated that the rainfall won't be as intense as during the night before. "We won't have the same high rainfall amounts we had last night," he explained. However, new showers and thunderstorms are believed to arrive from the north, which could possibly lead to more local flooding on Sunday afternoon. If these showers hit the already overfilled terrain, there will be more flooding. Particularly vulnerable on Sunday are the Swabian Alb region, areas to the north of it, and those around Augsburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Regensburg.
22:15 Disaster Situation Also in Freising
Freising has also declared a disaster situation due to the overflowing rivers and creeks. The district administration in the Upper Bavarian municipality identified the Amper and Glonn rivers as the ones at greatest risk of record-breaking water levels. The authorities fear a major flooding scene in Hohenkammer and any other settlements along the Amper. Citizens are advised to prepare for this kind of situation by, for example, emptying their cellars. Now, a total of ten Bavarian districts have declared a disaster situation.
-- 21:50 District of Dillingen experiences disaster due to heavy rainfall --
Due to persistently heavy rainfall, Dillingen's district in Bavaria has declared a state of emergency. The situation along the Zusam river, a tributary of the Danube, has worsened during the evening hours, according to the authorities. The crisis team has sent a call for assistance to the German military. Experts predict that the river may reach levels not seen in a hundred years, potentially affecting nearby towns of Buttenwiesen and Wertingen.
In response, the local administration is preparing to release water from the swollen Danube into the Riedstrom, a former natural overflow area of the river. Concurrently, they're urging local farmers to keep their livestock safe in secure stables.
-- 21:09 Eighth Bavarian municipality declares disaster situation --
The eighth district in Bavaria, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, has announced a disaster situation due to surging Danube and neighboring tributaries. Authorities fear the rise of water levels could reach a level 4 at the Neuburg gauge for the night. Furthermore, the conditions at the Paar and Weilach tributaries are deeming particularly grave. In Mühldorf, the Weilach has already breached its banks and flooded a residential area. The emergency squad is preparing to evacuate residents per orders from Landrat Peter von der Grün. Southern regions of the district are causing most concern. According to von der Grün, safeguarding roadways, bridges, and pathways is paramount to enabling the fire departments to continue rescue efforts.
-- 20:34 Bavarian Red Cross Utilizes Helicopter to Save People from House --
The Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) rescued two individuals from the roof of their Babenhausen home via a helicopter. As per a BRK spokesman, the rescue was imperative due to the house's imminent collapse because of the engulfing water masses. Similar situations were unfolding wherein people were removed from their residences through inflatable boats. Over 100 people, including many children, were brought to safety by the rescue teams.
-- 20:13 Multiple towns near Augsburg issue evacuation notices --
Rescue teams had to help individuals trapped in vehicles due to water masses. These situations may quickly become life-threatening because of the rising water levels inside the cars, warns a Red Cross representative. The district of Augsburg has urged residents to leave their homes in the face of the severe flood situation. The duration is anticipated to worsen in the northern part of the district at night. Municipalities including Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and the entire community of Nordendorf are at risk. The government of Swabia has established an emergency shelter at the Augsburg fairgrounds.
-- 19:48 Bundeswehr Assists in Dealing with Floods in Bavaria --
German military personnel are currently aiding Bavaria in managing the flooding. A Bundeswehr spokesperson confirmed that: "The Bundeswehr is assisting the two districts of Gunzburg and Aichach-Friedberg, upon their request." In Gunzburg, materials such as blankets and sleeping fields are being distributed. A batch of around 50 Bundeswehr members is expected to assist in the Aichach-Friedberg district, as well as two Bundeswehr trucks.
-- 19:20 Federal Interior Minister Offers Additional Assistance --
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated she would provide further support to the regions afflicted by the floods. "The THW (Technical Relief Organization) is ready to deploy even more troops," the SPD politician declared. "We will support the affected states with the resources available." As of Saturday evening, a total of 520 personnel from THW and affiliates were engaged in rescue operations. These personnel were tasked with rescuing people, fortifying embankments, and draining water
-- 18:58 29 Stranded Climbers Rescued at Zugspitze --
Mountain climbers, amounting to 29 people, were saved by rescue teams at the Zugspitze peak. These individuals were facing dangers from the swelling rivers and incessant rainfall. Despite the risks, a sensor was returned to its original position to ensure further visitor safety.
-- AFTERNOON SUMMARY: Emergency Situation Intensifies --
Flood threatening numerous districts in Bavaria and other affected German regions, prompting asks for Bundeswehr aid and evacuations. The rain has not ceased, increasing the danger and urgency. Emergency teams report numerous people injured due to flooding, while anecdotal accounts indicate potential losses to property and vehicles. The crisis intensifies, with temperatures dropping as rain continues throughout the afternoon.
Distressed climbers at Zugspitze have been saved, with 29 people escorted safely to the Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin due to the efforts of the mountain rescue service. Multiple groups had to call for help as they could not continue climbing due to adverse weather conditions and fresh snow around 2500 meters altitude, roughly 900 meters before the Sonnalpin. The mountain rescue service promptly responded, while employees of the Zugspitzbahn also rushed to aid in the search with their snow groomers.
There's a severe thunderstorm warning in effect for parts of Brandenburg, with districts like Dahme-Spreewald, Märkisch-Oderland, and Oder-Spree on alert until the evening. Possible threats include lightning, falling trees or power lines, falling objects, rapid flooding of roads, landslides, and hail.
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1FsUO90GvjXEjMl2xoQ2sx29ZgQd15L2N5B2j1ZX0&ll=47.99783238298497%2C10.7113716796875&z=10
The A3 motorway in Bavaria is partially closed near Regensburg due to flooding. Ten kilometers of the road between Parsberg and Beratzhausen are affected, with both directions experiencing closures. The water comes from nearby fields, and the authorities are on site to monitor the situation and direct traffic.
A prison in Memmingen, Bavaria, is being evacuated due to the risk of flooding. The up to 150 inmates will be temporarily relocated to Landsberg, Kempten, and Augsburg. A small river called the Memminger Ach, which runs directly in front of the prison, has turned into a torrent. If the prison becomes flooded, it could lead to a power outage, triggering the evacuation. Police, firefighters, and the prison administration are all in action to assist with the evacuation and alleviate the water build-up.
Rain has caused several gauges in Swabia to reach the fourth flood level. Rivers like Neu-Ulm, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, and Günz are swelling in Lower Bavaria and the Upper Palatinate. The High Water Information Service (HND) reports that gauges in Neu-Ulm Bad Held, Hasberg, Fleinhausen, Fischach, and Nattenhausen, as well as the Regen in Cham in the Upper Palatinate, have reached level 4. In Dasing (Paar), the same applies, with these levels representing at least one-hundred-year floods.
The Pegel Wiblingen (Iller) is anticipated to peak at level 3 in Meldestufe this weekend, while water levels in the upper Iller are currently receding. In the northern Donau rivers Wörnitz, Sulzach, Altmühl, Schwarze Laber, and Naab, there are individual gauges with Meldestufe 1 and 2 overflow and a growing trend. From Neu-Ulm to Kelheim, water levels are predicted to hit level 3 throughout the day, followed by the Pegel Kelheim at night on Sunday. In the Donau region north of Passau, rises to Meldestufen 1 and 2 are expected.
Despite the bad weather plaguing much of Bavaria, Munich Airport is operating as usual. No flight disruptions have been reported. The airport sits slightly elevated, with runways designed to facilitate water drainage and equipped with grooves to speed up the water runoff, preventing aquaplaning. Munich Airport anticipates no major issues for the remainder of the weekend.
Markus Söder, the Bavarian Minister President, is observing the impact of the recent storm in the most affected region. He acknowledges the contributions of helpers and officials during his visit to Diedorf in the Augsburg area. In the company of Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann, Söder acknowledges the crisis-readiness of Bavaria. He describes the situation as an "extreme burden" for residents. "This isn't over yet", he warns, "Things are just starting now." The main focus of the storm is currently in Swabia, so resources, such as sandbags, are being redirected there. Söder expresses his gratitude to the emergency services like the fire department, Red Cross, police, and Technical Relief Organization, lauding their commitment. He also calls upon citizens, insisting they follow safety regulations, including evacuation orders, and Avoid going down to the basement or attempting to drive their cars out of a garage.
There's no train traffic anymore in South Germany due to the storms and flooding. Deutsche Bahn has declared disruptions and cancellations in that region. The Munich to Bregenz and Zurich line remains non-functional for a whole day on Saturday, and the route between Ulm and Augsburg is also affected. This information is available on their website.
The Unterallgäu district in Bavaria now experiences a disaster situation. In Babenhausen, part of its mobile network has collapsed. Residents requiring help who can't make an emergency call should show a white cloth or sheet out of the window or be visible on it to seek help. So far, the district authorities have been rescuing people from their homes using inflatable boats.
Over 400 forces of the Technical Relief Organization (THW) are active in South Germany to assist with flood control, water pumping, dam safety, and evacuations. THW adds that they anticipate deploying additional members due to the continued rainfall and high possibility of flooding.
A comprehensive map of all current flood warnings is available here: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1FsUO90GvjXEjMl2xoQ2sx29ZgQd15L2N5B2j1ZX0&ll=47.99783238298497%2C10.7113716796875&z=10
A 26-person mountain climbing group is said to be stranded several hundred meters below the summit of the Zugspitze. Floods of 60 centimeters of fresh snow and heavy rain in the valley, with sub-zero temperatures and limited visibility have hindered their climb. Multiple rescue teams have been dispatched to search for the climbers in the snowstorm. The reason behind the group's persistence in mountain climbing amidst high weather alerts remains unknown.
The Donau-Ries district in Bavaria activated a disaster declaration. According to District Administrator Stefan Roßle, this helps in unifying and organizing rescue efforts more quickly and efficiently for anticipated water levels. "Please stay calm and avoid low-lying areas as much as possible at this time," he advises.
A dam is expected to burst near Augsburg, prompting evacuation plans.
Update 16:35: No trains running anymore
The storms and flooding in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria have also disrupted train traffic. German Railways (Deutsche Bahn) have announced cancellations and delays on various routes in South Germany. The Munich, Bregenz, and Zurich line will experience no train service Saturday due to the flood, although the Ulm-Augsburg route is also affected. Further information about track closures, cancellations, and delays can be found on their website.
Update 16:12: Disaster situation in Unterallgäu - Visible distress signal needed
In Unterallgäu, Bavaria, a disaster situation has developed. The residents who need assistance and can't make a distress call should show a white sheet or cloth through the window or, if possible, stand in front of it to draw attention to their desperate situation, reports the district administration. In the Babenhausen town, inflatable boats have already been deployed to rescue people from their homes.
Update 15:57: 400 THW forces in action in Southern Germany
To address the ongoing storms in Southern Germany, over 400 teams of the Technical Relief Organization (THW) are active. From Bonn, the organization confirms they are challenging themselves by removing floodwater, securing dams, and evacuating people. THW is prepared to deploy additional forces depending on the weather predictions and expected flooding in the coming hours.
In the Swabian region of Augsburg, there has been a breach in both a dam and a dike, as reported by the district administration. This has prompted residents in certain streets in the town of Diedorf to evacuate their homes. Plans are being made for an immediate evacuation in the Anhausen district of Diedorf. The local authorities suggest that simply moving to higher floors is no longer sufficient. The damaged dam is located in Burgwalden, while the failed dike is at the Anhauser Weiher. All individuals residing in the affected areas are urged to leave their homes promptly and independently within the hour to the Diedorf Schmuttertalhalle. Additionally, authorities warn against going near train underpasses, as floodwater could potentially flow there, thereby posing a threat to life.
Söder and Herrmann visit the affected area
Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann are making their way to the flood-stricken region of Augsburg in Swabia on Saturday. Their purpose is to personally assess the flood situation in Diedorf, as per the announcement from the Interior Ministry. District Administrator Martin Sailer will also be joining them. The visit's location was hastily altered due to the circumstances. Earlier, Söder and Herrmann had intended to visit the flooded Fischach. The flood situation is extremely critical in the Swabian area. Apart from Augsburg and Aichach-Friedberg, the district of Günzburg has also declared a disaster.
The flood conditions in Meckenbeuren are deteriorating. The Schussen river in Meckenbeuren within the Bodenseekreis is ascending steadily. A representative from the municipality confirmed that the river had reached a height of 4.72 meters in the afternoon. It is anticipated that the highest point will be reached shortly. During the previous flood in 2021, the river stood at 4.50 meters. Under normal circumstances, it normally carries just 45 centimeters of water. On Friday evening, approximately 1300 individuals were advised, as a precautionary measure, to depart their homes. The majority of these individuals have sought refuge with friends or family. Fewer than a few used a shelter. In the town with 14,000 inhabitants, schools, kindergartens, and halls were cleared out preemptively to mitigate the potential risks of flooding. To prevent any damage due to flooding, bridges were also closed.
Read also:
- The health department in neighboring counties, also affected by the flood, has advised residents to boil their drinking water due to the contamination risk, following the Landratsamt Donau-Ries' recommendation.
- Live ticker updates from international news sources show that various regions in Europe, including parts of Italy, France, and Germany, are dealing with severe flooding and undertaking emergency measures to combat the situation.
- Amidst the global context of climate change, experts predict that these extreme weather events, such as the current flooding, will become more frequent in the coming years, underscoring the necessity for preparedness and preventive measures.