Flooding in Saarland results in massive destruction.
The water from recent flash floods remains in ditches and towns across Saarland, with damages to private residences and infrastructure estimated to be in the millions. Thankfully, the assistance we've received has been tremendous, as Minister President Rehlinger acknowledges. However, we can't let our guard down just yet — more storms are coming on Tuesday.
Minister President Anke Rehlinger's preliminary estimate reveals that the devastation from the floods in Saarland is well into the millions. We'll have a clearer understanding of the true extent once the water subsides completely. What's apparent now is that private properties and critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and daycare facilities, have suffered significant damage. Battling the rising tides has occupied us for a few days, but the aftermath will be with us for years.
Saarland's government, recognizing that some individuals have reached their financial limits with necessary equipment purchases, is working to provide financial aid. Rehlinger disclosed that regulations are being developed alongside local authorities, with vital information about this assistance expected in the coming days.
"We must offer people clarity on the aid they can expect as soon as possible," she said. It's likely she'll also engage in discussions with the federal government about this.
Potential for Further Weather Events on Tuesday
The situation remains critical. In many areas, the state of emergency is still in effect. "We can't rule out the possibility that it's not over yet," Rehlinger said. Further torrential rains are on the horizon for Tuesday. "We hope for the best, but we're preparing for the worst," she added.
According to the German Weather Service in Offenbach, Monday sees isolated heavy showers, collecting about 15 liters of rain per square meter. On Tuesday, thunderstorms are forecasted to move north from the south, triggering heavy rainfall of about 20 liters per square meter in a short span. Some regions could experience up to 30-60 liters, while isolated areas might receive up to 80 liters.
The floodwater levels reduced significantly on Monday, allowing for cleanup tasks. Waste disposal facilities reopened, allowing people to discard large items.
The primary priority continues to be aiding individuals in need. Rehlinger estimated that thousands have been affected by this weather disaster, which featured heavy rainfall, landslides, and overflowing streets and cellars on Friday and Saturday evenings.
4,000 Firefighter and Police Deployments and Counting
Unfortunately, as personnel aided those in need, a 67-year-old woman lost her life during flood rescue efforts. Numerous rescue workers sustained minor injuries. However, Rehlinger expressed her relief that no additional fatalities or injuries had been reported thus far.
Rehlinger applauded the responders, both full-time and volunteer. "They have done an incredible job," she said. Over 4,000 deployments have already been made, with over 10,000 helpers and more than 5,000 members of neighborhood assistance. "Everyone has exhibited extraordinary effort," she remarked, "and we're fortunate and proud that Saarland's solidarity has withstood the test."
Assistance also arrived from Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, Baden-Württemberg, and Bavaria. Cooperation with neighboring countries of France and Luxembourg remains constant. "There's no shortage of solidarity and amity in this time of crisis."
Summary
Floods standing in meadows and towns have resulted in millions of euros in damage across Saarland. Minister President Anke Rehlinger expressed gratitude for the massive support received as new storms loom on Tuesday. Despite diminishing floodwater levels, emergency services focused on helping residents and maintaining critical infrastructure. Tragically, one woman perished during flood rescue efforts, while others received minor injuries. As the situation remains precarious, Rehlinger commended emergency services, many of whom traveled from across Germany and neighboring nations. Several thousand people were affected by these devastating events, with more rainfall forecasted in the coming days.
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- Floods: water levels remain critical in many places
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- Continuous operation in the flood areas
- Flood situation remains tense in many places
- Despite the reduction in floodwater levels, Saarland's fire department and police continue their efforts, as Minister President Rehlinger stresses the importance of preparedness for the potential heavy rainfall forecasted next Tuesday from the German Weather Service.
- To alleviate the financial burden caused by the flood damages, Anke Rehlinger announced that Saarland's government will work with local authorities to develop regulations for financial aid, aiming to provide essential information about the assistance to citizens in the coming days.
- The international community has shown solidarity in the face of the flood crisis in Saarland, with neighboring countries like France and Luxembourg joining forces with German states like Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, Baden-Württemberg, and Bavaria in sending numerous firefighters and police to aid in the rescue and recovery efforts.
Source: www.ntv.de
