Firefighters confronted with flooding in Rudersberg are struggling to free themselves.
At Rudersberg, in the Rems-Murr-Kreis of Baden-Württemberg, the firefighters were taken by surprise by the fast-rising water. The NTV reporter at the scene noted that they couldn't rescue residents as the water level rose so quickly. The firefighters could only save themselves by climbing to the upper floors of houses and staying there for hours. The fire station itself was reportedly flooded, and vehicles were moved to higher areas, only to be submerged minutes later. Two cars could not be safely transported.
07:40 Regensburg declares emergency status:
The rising waters of the Danube have led to Regensburg's declaration of an emergency status. The water level at the Eiserne Brücke measuring point has reached 5.90 meters, as reported by the Bavarian flood warning service. To put things into perspective, it was about 2.70 meters just a week before that. Expert data reveals that the water level reached 6.82 meters during the past major flood on June 4, 2013.
07:00 Helicopter rescue in Günzburg:
To save twelve people from balconies and roofs in Günzburg, the Wasserwacht used a police helicopter. A family, including three children, were among those rescued. Boat rescue was no longer an option due to the water masses.
06:30 Fears of dam break in Manching:
The Integrated Control Center Ingolstadt issued a warning regarding a potential dam break in Manching, Pfaffenhofen district, Bavaria. Residents are advised to stay in the upper floors of their homes and avoid basements and underground garages. In nearby Baar-Ebenhausen, a dam broke on Sunday.
06:00 Evacuations in Uhingen due to flooding:
Thanks to the flooding in the Filstal, people had to be evacuated from their homes in Uhingen, located south of Stuttgart. As stated by the police spokesperson early in the morning, evacuations are currently taking place in the town of Göppingen. Fortunately, no one was injured.
04:54 Ostalbkreis communities are being evacuated due to flooding:
The situation in the Ostalbkreis of Baden-Württemberg is becoming more dire. People are being evacuated from parts of Leinzell, Heuchlingen, and Göggingen due to impending floods, with Täferrot likely to be completely evacuated. The first flooding has already reached the town this morning. Around 250 to 300 people have been moved to safe locations.
04:42 Baden-Württemberg sends emergency forces to Bavaria:
To deal with the ongoing flood situation, Baden-Württemberg is sending emergency forces to the neighboring Günzburg district in Bavaria. The Baden-Württemberg Interior Ministry reported that they've dispatched three "Sanitation and Care" units on request. The emergency forces will provide care and support to those that evacuated their homes and apartments due to the floods. A water rescue vehicle from Ulm is also going to be deployed in the district to aid in the evacuation.
03:54 Esslingen builds provisional dam:
The city of Esslingen am Neckar is erecting a temporary dam to prevent a predicted flooding of certain parts of the inner city. The city's peak is expected in the early morning, which could result in inner-city canals being flooded. Near the Water House at a canal, about 1,500 tons of stones and sand will be piled up. Traffic disruptions are expected near the site. The city had already warned against entering basements and underground garages in the area.
03:00 Partial evacuation in Ebersbach an der Fils:
Ebersbach an der Fils, a community southeast of Stuttgart, is preparing some residents for potential evacuation. Residents living on specific streets are instructed to pack their documents and essentials to spend the night outside their homes. The fire department of Ebersbach will be there to assist.
02:50 Weather warnings lifted - but more rain is possible:
The German Weather Service (DWD) has removed all severe thunderstorms with heavy rain warnings for Germany. However, there are still localized rain showers with the potential for heavy rain in southern Germany. From noon onwards, areas south of the Danube and the Bavarian Forest will be heavily affected. There's a small chance of small-scale thunderstorms.
District Complain About Flood Tourists in Landkreis Augsburg
Emergency responders in Landkreis Augsburg have their hands full due to the increasing number of flood tourists. The rescue teams are constantly having to save people who disregarded all warnings and ventured out to the dikes, underpasses, and either on or in the water. The administration appeals to the public not to visit these areas, as floodwaves can be deceiving and banks may collapse. Additionally, drivers and pedestrians should avoid flooded roads and underpasses, as manhole covers can be forced up by the pressure in the sewer system and potentially suck people in.
Kretschmann and Strobl to Visit Flood-Affected Areas
Minister President Winfried Kretschmann and Interior Minister Thomas Strobl of Baden-Württemberg are planning to visit two areas struck by floods on Monday. According to a state government spokesperson, they will visit Meckenbeuren in Bodenseekreis in the morning and then proceed to Erbach in Alb-Donau-Kreis. Kretschmann had decided against visiting the site in person during the acute situation, where every extra hand is valuable and every sandbag can make a difference. Instead, he opted to stay informed continuously and thoroughly. He shared that relief workers were at their limits on Sunday afternoon.
Sound Barrier Broken in Ebersbach an der Fils, Full Alarm Declared
On Sunday evening, a full alarm was declared in the town of Ebersbach an der Fils near Stuttgart. This decision means that all firefighters are on duty. Video footage on the city's Facebook page revealed flooded sections of the Bundesstraße 10, where water masses broke through a noise barrier. The local authorities issued a somber warning to the residents: "Please stay at home (sic) and do not head to the emergency sites. Life is at risk, as you can see in the video. Please refrain from entering the water, as there may be manhole covers that you can't see." Additionally, people were advised not to enter their basements and instead stay on higher floors.
48-Year-Old Missing Person Found Dead in Basement
According to Bayerischer Rundfunk, the storm in southern Germany has claimed a life. This time, a missing person, aged 43, was found dead in a basement.
Blitz Hits Signal Box, Disrupts Regional Traffic Near Dresden for a While
Due to a failure in a signal box caused by lightning, regional train traffic around Dresden was disrupted in the evening. It affected the regional train route from Dresden to Bautzen and Görlitz, as reported by a spokesperson for the railway. Lightning struck the signal box in Radeberg east of the state capital at around 17:10. However, by evening, the damage was repaired. After approximately two hours, the trains returned to normal service.
Nursing Home in Lauingen Evacuated
In Lauingen near the Danube, a nursing home was evacuated due to flooding. The city posted on its website that residents would be accommodated and taken care of in an educational center.
Evacuation Orders Issued Due to Dam Breach
Due to a breach in a dam between the Danube and Schmutter, several communities in the Swabian district of Donau-Ries needed to be evacuated. The Donauwörth district office warned that Auchsesheim, Heißesheim, parts of Nordheim, Mertingen, Asbach-Bäumenheim, and Urfahrhof would be affected by the evacuation. They urged people to remain calm, gather their belongings, and follow the instructions of the rescue workers. Emergency shelters were also being set up.
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser Visit Bavaria's Flood Area
On Monday, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser plan to visit the flood-affected areas in Bavaria. They will meet with Prime Minister Markus Söder and State Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann in Reichertshofen in the Upper Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm. The President of the Technical Relief Organization, Sabine Lackner, is also expected to attend the meeting.
High waters force the closure of 40 schools in Bavaria, with cancellations in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Aichach-Friedberg, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Freising, Fürstenfeldbruck, Dachau, Dillingen, and Augsburg. In these districts, Grund-, Mittel- and Realschulen will not hold in-person classes, along with grammar schools, vocational and professional high schools, and special schools. Several schools in Pfaffenhofen will also be closed on Monday, and in some areas, kindergartens are also affected. Schrobenhausen also sees some schools closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Meanwhile, about 30 communities in Swabia face power outages, which seem to be focused on Günzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen. LEW power grid operator shares that emergency crews are trying to switch to other lines to restore power where possible. The severity and duration of the outages vary, depending on the situation on the ground.
More than 1,000 people have been evacuated in Günzburg due to rising waters in the Günz River; they have been accommodated in sports halls and, in part, Legoland. The city declared a disaster alert due to the increasing level and the need for extensive measures.
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) warns of more heavy rainfall, particularly in the south of Germany, especially Stuttgart, the Alps, and areas stretching from Saxony to southern Brandenburg and toward Berlin. possible. Extreme rainfall and strong thunderstorms may affect the Black Forest, Swabian Alb, and Alpine foothills up to the Bavarian Forest, with the potential for 40 liters per square meter per hour in some areas.
In Straubing, a disaster alert has been declared due to the worsening flood situation along the Danube. The city expects to surpass the fourth warning level within hours, putting several built-up areas at risk of flooding. Evacuation measures are ongoing, and roads have been closed due to the flood.
A submerged Bodenseekreis municipality, Meckenbeuren, cautions against flood tourism, as spectators interfere with rescue efforts and risk their own lives and that of others, according to officials. The Schussen river has overflowed, causing flooding in the villages of Kehlen and Brochenzell.
For the Brandenburg area, the DWD issues a warning for severe thunderstorms, with the potential for lightning strikes, uprooted trees, gusts, falling objects, and damage to houses. Meteorologists anticipate high winds and hail.
18:42Meteorological dangers predict further heavy rains in the southern regions of Germany, with possiblities of extreme showers in Stuttgart on Sunday evening. Thunderstorms are also possible in the Alps, as well as stretching from Saxony to Southern Brandenburg and Berli. The night brings more storms and heavy rains to the southern Alpine foothills and parts of the Bavarian forest.
18:07In response to the escalating situation along the Danube, Straubing's mayor, Markus Pannermayr, issues a disaster alert. They attribute the reason to the large-scale requirements and manpower needed for the emergency response. With the Danube reaching over six meters, the city anticipates the level 4 threshold being surpassed quickly. The flood warning service splits alerts into four levels, with the first level signalling minor overflowing and the fourth level threatening to flood many built-up areas. Het zijn beveiligingsmaatregelen goed vooruitgang maken, werd gemeld. In sommige gedeelten waren wegranden al gesloten door het overstromingsgevaar.
17:34A partly flooded district of Friedrichshafen, Meckenbeuren, advises against 'flood tourism'. The municipality fears that bystanders would prevent rescue teams from doing their work and even put their own lives at risk. The Schussen River spilled over its banks on Saturday evening, inundating numerous streets and properties in the Kehlen and Brochenzell neighborhoods.
17:11A warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree region, with the potential for lightning strikes, uprooted trees, high-speed winds, falling objects, and house damage. Landslides or hail are also possible.
16:53The Bodenseekreis area in Friedrichshafen goes cautious, urging residents to avoid flood-prone areas. Encourage residents to respect route and bridge closures to ensure the safety of all. In Brochenzell and Kehlen, streets flooded after the Schussen River surpassed its bank.
Because of the flooding, both Dachau and Kelheim have declared a state of emergency. "The current situation, along with predictions about water levels, remains tense," admits Kelheim's district administrator Martin Neumeyer. Dachau's district administrator Stefan Löwl shares the same sentiment. With local forces unable to handle the numerous emergency sites in the coming hours, Löwl explains the necessity of this move. Now, help can be sent to the area.
16:25: Disruptions in train travel on Monday to be expected
Passengers may face restrictions on train travel on Monday due to the weather in southern Germany. The German Railways (Deutsche Bahn) is extending its leniency policy through Monday: anyone who has purchased a ticket for travel between Sunday and this Monday and wishes to postpone their journey due to weather damage may do so at a later time. According to the company, the ticket's time-limited nature is waived. As of now, the extent of the disruptions remains unclear. Several long-distance routes in the south have been affected, with trains being canceled, for example, on the Munich-Nuremberg-Berlin, Stuttgart-Mannheim-Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Crailsheim-Nuremberg and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Ulm-Augsburg-Munich routes. The railway advises against traveling in areas in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg affected by flooding.
16:08: Approximately 3,000 people in Bavaria forced to evacuate
According to a spokeswoman for the Bavarian Interior Ministry in Munich, around 3,000 people in Bavaria have been affected by evacuations due to flooding. The number of forces responding to the flood situation is currently around 20,000, with 40,000 emergency forces having been mobilized since the situation began.
15:51: Weather expert: "It's unthinkable how bad it is"
The flood situation in the south is not expected to ease up, says meteorologist Bernd Fuchs. "Every drop matters," emphasizes the ntv weather expert. While discussing a connection to the climate crisis, he views the current situation as a "clear sign of where we're headed."
15:22: Incredible accident: A man critically injured during power lines maintenance in the flooded area
In the Upper Bavarian district of Freising, a man working on power lines during the flood received a severe electric shock. According to a spokesperson for the Upper Bavarian Police Headquarters North, a 27-year-old employee of an energy company was rescued from a flooded area near the town hall in Allershausen by a rescue helicopter and flown to a hospital. It is thought that the work was relevant to the flood situation.
15:02: Shipping on the Upper Rhine has been halted
Due to heavy rainfall in South Germany, the water levels along the Rhine have risen, causing shipping to be partially stopped. At a section of the Upper Rhine near Karlsruhe, no ships have been allowed to sail since Saturday, as reported by the High Water Forecasting Center Rhineland-Palatinate. In Maximiliansau, the water level reached the critical shipping high water mark II of 7.50 meters on Saturday night. It had risen to 8.20 meters by Sunday afternoon but was expected to fall again at night. However, further rising water levels are anticipated downstream in the coming days: in Mannheim, Worms, and Mainz. Along the Middle and Lower Rhine, high water levels could also follow, potentially jeopardizing shipping on the significant waterway. In Koblenz, for example, it's estimated that by Tuesday, the level will reach approximately 6.10 meters, and no ships should be able to navigate once it reaches 6.50 meters. On Wednesday, the highest levels are expected in Cologne and Düsseldorf.
14:38: The Autobahn A9 is closed for approximately 50 kilometers
The Autobahn A9 is closed for about 50 kilometers in the Pfaffenhofen district due to a dam break. Affected is a section between Allershausen and Ingolstadt, where the road is partially flooded. A spokesperson for the Upper Bavaria North police department has commented on the situation, expressing that this is a new development for the police. Additionally, there are power outages affecting numerous individuals.
Update 15:23 p.m.: According to Autobahn GmbH, the disrupted section is between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck in both directions. Furthermore, the section between Pfaffenhofen and the Autobahn junction Neufahrn is severely constrained. It is advised to avoid the whole area comprehensively.
13:59: Economy Minister Habeck sees heavy rain as a result of climate change
The Economy Minister, Robert Habeck, urges more action on climate protection after the flood disaster in South Germany has subsided. "Preventing carbon emissions to buy time for adaptation is not a joke or something to shrug off, it's our primary focus," he says during a visit to flood-stricken Reichertshofen in Bavaria. Habeck emphasizes that the increase in natural disasters shows the significant change in nature and climate. Centuries-old floods now take place "every few years."
13:34 Chancellor Scholz plans to visit flood-affected sites on Monday
The Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, intends to observe the flood situation firsthand on Monday by visiting the affected areas.
13:21 A 22-year-old firefighter is missing after an operation in Offingen
Officials confirm that a 22-year-old firefighter is missing after participating in an evacuation operation in Offingen, District of Günzburg. Along with a colleague and three DLRG helpers, he is believed to have been in a boat for an evacuation around 2:50 am when the vessel overturned. Four of the helpers were rescued; the missing firefighter was first reported missing in the morning. Air and ground searches are ongoing for the missing individual.
13:11 Prolonged rainfall with further thunderstorms in flood-stricken areas of southern Germany
The new week brings no respite in the German flood zones as heavy rainfall persists with storms triggering additional showers. Meteorologist Björn Alexander states, "the downpours are still prevalent in the area." Further, localized thunderstorm centers have formed.
12:52 Another danger of a dam burst on the Paar River
A potential dam breach threatens on the Paar, affecting Reichertshofen, Westenhausen, Lindach, Ernsgaden, Irsching, and Knodorf in the Pfaffenhofen district. Authorities urge residents to move to higher floors and avoid basements and cellars. They should also notify the fire department by dialing 112 in case of an emergency.
12:39 Söder: Around 40,000 emergency workers deployed in Bavaria
Bavarian Prime Minister, Markus Söder, states that approximately 40,000 emergency personnel are engaged to handle the flood crisis in the state. "Our top priority now is to organize relief efforts effectively in the coming hours," Söder tells local media during a visit to Upper Bavarian Reichertshofen. Relieving workers who have been on-site for prolonged periods is crucial, as exhaustion and the potential for error increase with time.
12:29 Straubing establishes dam watchers
Straubing's Donaupegel will reach the maximum alert level 4, according to the High Water Information Service (HND). Starting at 3 pm, the city will set up dam guards with fire department personnel monitoring the dam's condition closely and reporting any changes in water levels or damage. Additionally, more sandbags are being filled.
12:03 Flooding in Pfaffenhofen district: A dam has collapsed in Baar-Ebenhausen
The Pfaffenhofen district faces another dam breach near Baar-Ebenhausen. Residents are ordered to evacuate from the ground floor of their houses immediately.
11:37 Chancellor Scholz honors rescue workers and volunteers in affected regions
Chancellor Olaf Scholz showcases his appreciation and respect to the rescue teams and volunteers in flood-affected regions. "The death of a firefighter in Pfaffenhofen deeply affected me," he notes on Twitter, "my thoughts are with his fellow firefighters and colleagues." The unfortunate accident claimed a firefighter's life during a rescue operation in the night hours in the Upper Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm.
11:25 Baeting, Catholic Church Chairman, expresses hope for the safety of lives during the Catholic Day in Erfurt
Georg Baeting, Chairman of the German Bishops' Conference, delivers a special message to the people affected by the floods at a closing Mass of the Catholic Day in Erfurt. "Let's hope that human lives are spared and protected," says Baeting in front of Erfurt Cathedral.
The districts of Kehlen and Brochenzell in the community of Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis are now underwater. The Schussen river has overflowed its banks and flooded streets, says a spokesperson for the municipality. Over 1,300 people have already left their homes voluntarily on Saturday, seeking safety elsewhere. Some residents have chosen to stay in their homes and take refuge in the upper floors. The water level in the Schussen reached a startling 4.86 meters on Saturday evening, which is significantly higher than the usual depth of 45 cm. Since then, the water level has been receding.
In the same vein, the Minister President of Bavaria, Markus Söder, pays tribute to a firefighter who lost his life while performing a rescue operation in the Bavarian flood-affected areas on Twitter. He writes, "His service and commitment to his fellow human beings will always be remembered." The deepest condolences are extended to his colleagues and friends, adds Söder, "We all grieve." The deceased was a 42-year-old member of the volunteer fire department who accidentally lost his life when a rescue boat overturned near the towns of Affalterbach and Uttenhofen.
Due to heavy rainfall on Sunday, the Ukrainian national football team's final training session at the Max-Morlock-Stadion in Nuremberg has been moved. Instead, the team will practice in Erlangen. The decision was made to protect the lawn in the stadium, says a spokesperson for the Ukrainian team. The team is scheduled to play against Germany's national team at 8:45 pm on Monday (ARD).
The Munich region has also been grappling with constant rainfall. Since 6:00 am on Saturday, the fire department has been attending to over 290 interventions. Their primary focus is to pump out the water from flooded basements and underground garages. Furthermore, several trees have been uprooted due to the wet ground, resulting in roads being closed. On Saturday evening, the flood warning level 2 of the Isar was exceeded.
In Anhausen, the flood situation has started to improve after a dam broke five kilometers away, causing the area to be inundated within a short time. "People who have been evacuated here are beginning to return," reports ntv reporter Niklas Diemer. However, the water levels are still critical elsewhere.
More staff from the Technical Relief Organization (THW) is being deployed to the flooded areas in southern Germany. Over 1,800 people are currently involved in the rescue efforts, according to a spokeswoman. The helpers are securing dams, filling sandbags, and assisting in evacuations. They are working alongside the fire department and other emergency services.
In Baden-Württemberg's Schwaebisch Gmuend, a landslide has affected train and car traffic. The regional train cannot pass through the damaged section of the track, and a rescue locomotive on the second track will assist in recovering the trains. The exact duration of the closure is still unknown. On Saturday evening, two wagons of an ICE with 185 passengers on board derailed following an earthquake.
In Schrobenhausen, a person is reported missing. The individual is believed to have been in the basement of a house when the floodwater arrived. The cellar and part of the upper floor are now submerged, a spokesman for the Neuburg-Schrobenhausen District Administration says. Unfortunately, rescue teams cannot currently access the house.
In Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria, a firefighter passes away. He was part of a team of four conducting a rescue in a boat when it capsized, leaving him dead early on Sunday, according to a district administration spokesperson.
Baden-Württemberg is dealing with the repercussions of the ongoing flood. The region is at risk of experiencing a century-old flood, prompting widespread concern. The rescue services and helpers are facing increasing challenges as they try to safeguard bridges, clear roads, and rescue residents.
The landslide-affected ICE in Schwaebisch Gmuend is expected to be recovered in the morning. The ICE cannot pass the section of the track, stating a spokeswoman. However, a rescue locomotive has been deployed to help with the operation. The length of the closure is yet to be determined.
8:30 Shifting floods continue in southern Germany
In Bavaria, authorities are still keeping a close eye on level 4 floods at various locations. The affected areas include the Danube tributaries of Gunz, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, Paar, Abens, Ilm, and Amper, as well as the upper Danube. These floods peaked last night. Further downstream, the floods are shifting, moving from Swabia towards Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate areas such as Neuburg, Kelheim, and Regensburg. The peak wave is anticipated to reach them in the beginning of next week. Additionally, significant water level rises are expected in Muhlried (Schrobenhausen district), Manching and Geisenfeld (Upper Bavaria), and Abensberg (Kelheim district) on Sunday.
9:04 More heavy rains predicted in the south
The German Weather Service (DWD) anticipates further heavy thunderstorms with heavy rain in many areas of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg on Sunday. According to a morning report, thunderstorms and heavy rain are predicted from noon until Monday night. Consequently, the streets and basements could flood once again. Furthermore, there's a risk of lightning damage, the DWD warned.
8:39 Augsburg district issues more evacuation orders
In southern Germany's flooded regions, the Augsburg district is expanding their calls for evacuation. Residents in Kühlenthal and Allmannshofen are urged to leave their homes immediately, as instructed by the integrated control center early in the morning. Buses have been arranged for evacuees unable to leave on their own. Other parts of the district saw evacuation requests on Saturday evening and at night. Most noteworthy is the Schmutter river, a Danube tributary, which is threatening the affected communities.
8:15 Wiesbaden prepares for potential water level surges
Authorities in Wiesbaden take measures against potential water level surges on the Rhine and Main. In the Kostheim district, a flood protection wall has been built, as reported by the fire department early in the morning. In the neighboring Rhine-facing district of Schierstein, a pump has also been installed. The fire department reminds people to keep away from riverbank parking lots in the next few days, although no further measures are expected at present.
7:46 Train traffic suspended between Stuttgart and Munich
Due to a landslide in the Baden-Württemberg town of Schwäbisch Gmünd, there is currently no long-distance train traffic between Stuttgart and Munich. A railway spokesperson gives no timeline for when the line will reopen in the early morning. The landslide has blocked the bypass between Aalen and Stuttgart, leading to rerouting of long-distance trains.
6:54 THW fills over 30,000 sandbags in Ulm
In an overnight operation, the Technical Relief Organization (THW) in Ulm prepares sandbags for flood-affected and flood-threatened areas in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. THW's Logistics Center head, Bernd Urban, mentions during the morning that 30,000 sandbags will be delivered. "We're currently able to fill 400 sandbags an hour," he says. Requests for sandbags arrive from various areas in the southwest as well as from neighboring states.
5:25 Bavarian Red Cross sends water rescue team to Günzburg
The Bavarian Red Cross is deploying a water rescue unit from Unterfranken to aid flood response operations in Swabia. The team, equipped with two boat and diving squads, is anticipated to be used in the Günzburg district, where several bodies of water have reached the level of a centennial flooding. This flood level, also known as a level exceeding the statistical average of 100 years, was experienced at various locations in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria due to persistent rainfall.
5:01 Two wagons of an ICE derail in Schwäbisch Gmünd
Two wagons of an ICE with 185 passengers on board derailed in the Baden-Württemberg town of Schwäbisch Gmünd due to a landslide in the late evening. The passengers sustained no injuries, and are currently being evacuated. A railway spokesperson reports that the accident occurred around 23:20, but the wagons did not tip over. The landslide covered 30 meters of the track. The train's passengers are expected to stay in a nearby kindergarten before being taken to Plöderhausen by bus.
A landslide in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Württemberg, hits a car. The police report that the driver remains unharmed. The landslide took place beside the county road and railway line. The town is approximately 50 kilometers east of Stuttgart. Since Friday, there has been heavy rainfall in Baden-Württemberg and other areas.
Neu-Ulm has successfully overcome the peak flood levels on the Danube and Iller, according to estimates provided by the municipality's administration. Though water levels are very high, the 100-year flood didn't occur. However, two streets, the Danube embankments, and bike paths along the Danube and Iller will be closed for now. Mayor Katrin Albsteiger said they'll assess the damage once the situation stabilizes.
The Munich Fire Department warned of potential dangers along the Isar River bank due to flooding. Additionally, two popular footpaths along the river were closed. The city reached alert level 2, which indicates flooding in non-built areas or traffic disruption on roads.
In Schrobenhausen, Upper Bavaria, firefighters and rescue teams plan to evacuate 670 people. Tractors and boats are being used in the Mühldorf district and a nearby road along the Weilach River. The emergency phone line for citizens has been set up, and the municipality previously declared a disaster situation. District Administrator Peter von der Grün expressed concern for the southern part of the district.
Gera's control center reports that numerous fire brigade operations are underway due to heavy rain and thunderstorms in eastern Thuringia, particularly in Ronneburg, Greiz district. Dozens of roads, fields, and cellars are flooded. A small stream has also overflowed.
The German Weather Service (DWD) states that rainfall has eased slightly in southern Germany. A meteorologist says that significant rainfall amounts, like last night, will not return. Showers and thunderstorms from the north could create local flood risks on Sunday afternoon, though. If these showers hit the already saturated ground, new flooding may occur. Especially vulnerable to the showers and thunderstorms on Sunday are the Swabian Alb, areas north of it, and the regions around Augsburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Regensburg.
The Freising district declares a disaster situation due to overflowing rivers and streams. The Amper and Glonn rivers are facing record-breaking water levels, with Hohenkammer and areas along the Amper at risk of large-scale flooding. Residents are encouraged to prepare themselves for this extreme situation. Ten Bavarian districts have now declared a disaster situation.
The Dillingen district in Bavaria also declares a disaster situation due to ongoing rainfall. The Zusam, a tributary of the Danube, reached a worse flood situation, prompting the local crisis team to request assistance from the Bundeswehr. Experts predict a 100-year flood on the small river, which could impact Buttenwiesen and Wertingen. Moreover, the district administration is preparing to release water from the Danube into the Riedstrom, a natural floodplain of the river. Farmers with livestock in the area were advised to keep them securely inside their barns.
People in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Neu-Ulm, Munich, Schrobenhausen, eastern Thuringia, Sustained rain in the south, Freising, and Dillingen are experiencing various flood-related challenges due to heavy rainfall and rivers overflowing. In some cases, emergency services are being deployed to address the dangerous situations.
8:09 PM: Eighth Municipality in Bavaria Declares Disaster Situation
The Landkreis Neuburg-Schrobenhausen declares a disaster situation due to the swelling of the Danube and its tributaries. The local administration in Upper Bavaria announced this. The Water Management Office in Ingolstadt predicts a level 4 at the Neuburg gauge for the night. The situation at the Paar, a Danube tributary, and the Weilach, which flows into the Paar, is particularly alarming. The Weilach has already overflowed in the Schrobenhausen district and flooded a residential area in Schrobenhausen, creating a need for evacuating residents, according to district administrator Peter von der Grün. The district is most affected in its southern region. Von der Grün emphasized that road, bridge, and path protection is a top priority, "only then can the fire brigade continue their operations."
8:04 PM: Life-threatening Situation - Red Cross Rescues People from Roofs with Helicopter
The Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) has rescued two people from the roof of their house in Babenhausen with a helicopter. The two people were in a life-threatening situation as the house was at risk of collapsing due to the flooding. The Bavarian Red Cross spokesperson also reported that people were rescued from their homes with inflatable boats, as rescue teams brought more than 100 people to safety - including dozens of children.
7:57 PM: People in Several Places near Augsburg are Asked to Leave their Homes
Due to the urgent flood situation, rescue teams had to free people from their cars that were trapped because they couldn't open the doors, as the spokesperson explained. Such a situation could quickly become life-threatening due to the strong current and the rising water in the car. In several municipalities of the Augsburg district, residents are asked to leave their homes and apartments. According to the spokeswoman for the Augsburg district administration, the situation will worsen in the evening in the northern part of the district. The municipalities affected include Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and the entire municipality of Nordendorf. The Swabian government has set up a temporary shelter at the Augsburg fairgrounds.
7:35 PM: Bundeswehr Assists in Flooded Areas in Bavaria
German armed forces soldiers are assisting in flood-affected areas in Bavaria. The Bavarian Bundeswehr command spokeswoman confirmed that the two districts of Günzburg and Aichach-Friedberg made official requests and received assistance. Around Günzburg, blankets and field beds are being distributed. In the Aichach-Friedberg district, about 50 Bundeswehr soldiers are expected soon. Two Bundeswehr trucks are also in use there.
7:11 PM: Nancy Faeser Promises Additional Support
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser promised further support for the regions affected by the floods in southern Germany. "The THW is prepared to deploy additional forces due to the heavy rain and impending flooding," said the SPD politician in Berlin. "We will continue to support the affected federal states with all available forces." She reported that currently, 520 THW helpers and helpers are in action, rescuing people, securing dikes, and pumping water. Faeser thanked all the emergency services for their hard work. She requested residents to follow the authorities' warnings and instructions.
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=13d30ZGZdqPj602530VV5hg_QC7D4h1Q8-b-sP-qU
6:48 PM: 29 Mountain Climbers Rescued at Zugspitze
The mountain climbers who were in distress at the Zugspitze (see Live Ticker entry at 3:15 PM) have been rescued. 29 people have been safely escorted to the Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin at the Zugspitzplatt by the mountain rescue service. Multiple groups called for assistance, as they couldn't continue due to weather and new snow at about 2,500 meters above sea level, 900 meters before the Sonnalpin. The Zugspitzbahn employees were also heading to assist the climbers in the search.
6:35 PM: Weather Warning for Parts of Brandenburg
The German Weather Service (DWD) warns of the dangers of severe thunderstorms for parts of Brandenburg. The districts of Dahme-Spreewald, Märkisch-Oderland, and Oder-Spree are under the second-highest warning level until the evening. This could include lightning strikes, falling trees or power lines, falling objects, rapid road flooding, landslides, or hail.
6:00 PM: Flood Water on Autobahn - A3 Partially Closed
Water on the Autobahn A3, between Kaufering-Ost and Lamerdingen, is creating a dangerous situation. The northbound lane is partially closed. The weather service anticipates steady rain for the entire day, potentially increasing the flood risk.
The A3 motorway in Bavaria near Regensburg is closed in both directions over a stretch of around ten kilometers between exits Parsberg and Beratzhausen. The road surface is flooded, according to the Upper Palatinate police headquarters. "The water is pressing onto the motorway from the fields," says a spokesperson. The traffic police in Regensburg confirm that motorway maintenance, fire department, and police are on site. Traffic will be diverted, the spokesperson adds.
At 17:51, a prison in Memmingen, Bavaria, is being evacuated due to potential flooding. The news agency Nonstopnews reports that up to 150 inmates will be temporarily relocated to Landsberg, Kempten, and Augsburg. The Memminger Ach, a small river running in front of the prison, has become a raging stream and poses a threat to flood the prison, with parts of the courtyard already under water. This could lead to a power outage, prompting the prison management to make the decision to evacuate. Emergency vehicles from the police and fire department are on site to help with the evacuation.
17:35 Heavy rain has caused water levels to rise to level 4 at several gauges in Swabia. Rivers in Lower Bavaria and the Upper Palatinate are rapidly swelling. The flood warning service (HND) reports this, as well as the potential for hundred-year floods in Nattenhausen (Günz) and Dasing (Paar). The Pegel Wiblingen (Iller) is expected to reach its peak in Meldestufe 3 from Saturday to Sunday, with water levels already receding in the lower Iller. In the northern Donau tributaries Wörnitz, Sulzach, Altmühl, Schwarze Laber, and Naab, there are individual gauges with level 1 and 2 overflows with a rising trend. From Neu-Ulm to Kelheim, water levels are expected to rise to Meldestufe 3 throughout the day, for example in Gunzburg, Donauwörth, and Neuburg. The Pegel Kelheim should follow suit at night. In the further Donau section to Passau, increases in levels 1 and 2 are expected.
In spite of the heavy rain in many parts of Bavaria, flight operations at Munich Airport continue normally. There have been no flight cancellations as of yet. There are several reasons for this - "We see water standing in the meadows next to the runways," said airport spokesman Robert Wilhelm to BR. The airport was also built slightly elevated, and the runways have been sunken towards the sides to facilitate water drainage. They are also "grooved", meaning they have grooves to accelerate water runoff. As a result, there is currently no danger of aquaplaning, Wilhelm informs the Bavarian broadcaster. The airport does not anticipate any major complications for the remainder of the weekend.
At 17:07, Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder is taking a first-hand look at the situation in the area particularly hard hit by the storm in Diedorf in the Augsburg district. He expresses his gratitude to the helpers and authorities. Bavaria is prepared for crises, says Söder in the presence of Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann. He recognizes the overwhelming situation for citizens, calling it an "extreme burden." Söder adds, "This is not over yet. Things are really getting started now." Resources - such as sandbags - are being concentrated in Swabia, where the focus of the storm currently is. "Without the helpers and helpers," Söder appeals to the rescue services such as the fire department, Red Cross, police, and Technical Relief Organization. They are all displaying exemplary dedication, he notes. To the citizens, Söder requests: "Please follow the rules." Residents should adhere to evacuation orders and avoid trying to go back into the cellar or drive their car out of the garage.
By 16:35, rail traffic in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria has been impacted by the storms and flooding. Deutsche Bahn reports disruptions and train cancellations in southern Germany. Two ICE lines are especially affected, notes a spokesperson. There are no trains between Munich, Bregenz, and Zurich all day on Saturday due to the flood. The line between Ulm and Augsburg is also impacted. The Bahn is posting updates on track closures, cancellations, and delays on its website.
So far, flight operations at Munich Airport are proceeding normally despite the heavy rainfall in Bavaria. There have been no flight cancellations. The airport is located at a slightly elevated position, and the runways have been sunken to facilitate water drainage. They are also grooved, which accelerates water runoff. Due to these features, there is no risk of aquaplaning. The airport does not predict any major issues for the rest of the weekend.
Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder is touring the severely affected area in Diedorf, Augsburg district. He thanks the helpers and authorities, stating that Bavaria is prepared for such crises. He acknowledges the immense strain on citizens, characterizing it as an "extreme burden." Despite this, he notes, "This is not over yet. Things are really getting started now." The emergency services, including the police, fire department, Red Cross, and Technical Relief Organization, have shown exceptional commitment, and Söder encourages the public to follow guidelines, including evacuation orders and refraining from venturing out.
In Unterallgäu, the disaster scenario has escalated with cellphone network failure in Babenhausen. To signal for help, residents stranded there can hang a white cloth or sheet outside their windows, as advised by the district administration. Rescue operations in the town use inflatable boats to save people from their homes.
In South Germany, a force of about 400 THW individuals are honing their efforts to address the storm's aftermath. This is according to the THW's report in Bonn. The team is currently busy with pumping water, securing dams, and evacuating residents preemptively. More THW forces are in the pipeline due to the continuous and at times heavy rainfall. In addition, flood gauges will be strategically installed and kept under constant observation. The THW envisions employing even more personnel in view of the weather predictions and imminent flooding in the near future. Across the nation, THW teams are on alert, awaiting deployment. Each relief group is equipped with 40 THW members who manage three sewage pumps, a generator, an exploration vehicle, and a command post. Each group can vacuum up to 30,000 liters of water every minute.
Here lies a map of all current flood warnings. The graphic is routinely updated. https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=13d30ZGZdqPj602530VV5hg_QC7D4h1Q8-b-sP-qU
A 26-person mountaineering team is trapped below the peak of Zugspitze, hovering a few hundred meters above the ground. According to Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR), 60cm of snow had deluged the Zugspitze in record time, marking a deluge in the valley as well. Temperatures are beneath freezing, and visibility measures merely 100m. The rescue teams have been called in to locate the climbers amidst acute blizzard conditions. Unfortunately, their existing state is potentially fatigued and ill-equipped. It's unclear why the group attempted to climb the Zugspitze amid the severe weather forecasts.
The Donau-Ries district takes the disaster situation very seriously, so much so that the District Administrator, Stefan Roßle, declares a disaster situation to mobilize and coordinate responses. "It's crucial to maintain calm and, when feasible, distance oneself from low-lying areas" he notes.
In Augsburg, authorities report that a dam and a dike have both failed, resulting in a critical flood situation. The residents of select streets in Diedorf are instructed to evacuate their homes immediately. The evacuation is a necessary move to safeguard the lives of those living in the threatened districts of Anhausen. The district of Diedorf finds itself surrounded by sizable flood risks. The dike broke in Burgwalden, while a dam in Anhauser Weiher weakened and gave way.
Söder, Herrmann, and Sailer, three key players in the Bavarian administration, plan to survey the flood conditions in Augsburg's Swabian district from a close angle. The three politicians from CSU will make the journey on Saturday, hoping to take a closer look at the flood situation in Diedorf. The destination was adjusted at the eleventh hour to better account for the unforeseen disaster in Diedorf. The threat level is higher in the Swabian region than in the neighboring Günzburg and Aichach-Friedberg areas, which have likewise declared disaster situations.
The water level in Meckenbeuren's Schussen river is rapidly rising, causing concern among locals. The river reached 4.72 meters in height this afternoon, as per the recent announcement made by the town's spokesperson. Officials are hopeful that the peak will be reached soon, following the previous flood in 2021, where the water level had reached 4.50 meters. Regularly, the river carries a shallow depth of only 45 centimeters. As a preventive measure, around 1300 residents were advised to evacuate their homes on Friday evening. The majority of them chose to stay with friends or relatives, while a few opted for a temporary shelter. To minimize potential damage, schools, kindergartens, and community halls were cleared out ahead of time. In the area that houses 14,000 people, several bridges were also shut down as a safety precaution.
