Germany's largest campsite requires evacuation at 21:08.

Germany's largest campsite requires evacuation at 21:08.

The campground in Wesel, North Rhine-Westphalia, needs evacuation due to dangerous water levels. The water levels in nearby rivers and bodies of water are the main cause, according to the Grav-Island's management. Grav-Island is the largest campsite in Germany with 5,000 permanent campers.

20:53: Regensburger Werftstraße evacuated: The ground is softeningThe Regensburger Werftstraße is being evacuated, as the city of Regensburg announces. This street is located directly on the Danube, and due to high groundwater levels, the ground is collapsing. The installed flood protection could fail and the street may get flooded. About 200 people need to leave the area starting at 9 pm.

20:33: Tourist saved from flooded riverbankA woman in her late 50s who was driving her car and trailer on the flooded Rhine bank in Mainz-Kostheim was rescued by the fire brigade. Her panic increased because of the rising water, and she called for help. She was rescued using a boat and placed on higher ground. The firefighters also moved her trailer onto a safer parking spot.

20:04: A8 closed in both directions due to floodingPart of the A8 motorway in the direction of Munich is shut down between Rohrdorf and Frasdorf due to flooding. The same for the A8 between exit Achenmühle towards Salzburg.

19:44: Bodenseekreis pegel levels fallingWater levels in the Bodenseekreis are decreasing. The neighborhoods of Seefelder Aach, Rotach, and Schussen have seen falling levels because less rain than expected. The pegel level of the Argen is expected to reach its peak in the evening.

19:15: Fatal incident in Schorndorf: victims tried to pump water in cellarIn the Rems-Murr-Kreis, two people died from the flood in Schorndorf. Both were attempting to drain their cellar when the accident happened. Police in Aalen identified the victims as a 58-year-old man and his 84-year-old mother. However, the exact cause of the accident is still unclear. The cellar had been flooded completely. Rescue teams found their bodies later in the cellar.

18:43: Rosenheim district declares state of emergencyDue to persistent rain, the Rosenheim district declares a state of emergency. "This action will help us better handle the increased demand for forces and a speedier, more efficient coordination of the rescue squads," district administrator Otto Lederer said. The river and creek levels have significantly risen in recent afternoon. Fire department and THW rescue teams are being deployed in mass.

18:40: Weather service issues warning - no heavy sustained rain expected in Baden-WürttembergIt seems that heavy sustained rain in Baden-Württemberg has stopped - the German Meteorological Service (DWD) now reports no warnings for this region.

18:34: Green climate expert suggests suspensions of debt brakeThe damages from the flooding in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria may reach millions. Therefore, the Greens are urging the suspension of the debt brake. "Facing the expected costs, it may be necessary to consider suspending the debt brake," said the Green climate expert Lisa Badum to "t-online".

18:17: Hesse: Rhein and Neckar levels keep rising until WednesdayIn Hesse, the situation on the Rhine and Neckar remains critical. At four gauges of these rivers, warning levels are exceeded, according to the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG). The water levels on the Rhine in Hesse are expected to keep rising until Wednesday. Additionally, the water levels of the Main are also expected to rise on Monday. The impending melting is unlikely to exceed the HLNUG warning levels for the time being.

5:35 Emergency services free trapped man in Dörzbach

In the town of Dörzbach, a man had to be rescued by firefighters and police officers after getting stranded in his car on a flooded sports field. The 54-year-old had driven onto the field to observe the flooding from a safe distance, but his vehicle quickly became stuck in the rising waters. Bystanders were unable to help him as the water reached his car's window level. Soon, the man called for assistance, and the emergency services arrived to free him. Fortunately, he was uninjured, but he would have to cover the expenses of the rescue operation.

16:51 Mayor describes chaotic scenes in Schorndorf

Schorndorf's mayor, Bernd Hornikel, has recounted dramatic events from the flood-stricken areas. The floodwaters arrived in Schorndorf so quickly that the fire service had to rescue themselves, he explained. Despite deploying all seven fire departments to aid the community of Rudersberg, only one team managed to arrive. Two vehicles were completely submerged in the torrents. The team took refuge on the roof of their flooded vehicle until they could be rescued.

16:11 River break in Amper forces temporary relocation

A break in the Amper river has forced residents in Moosburg an der Isar to leave their homes. A dam on the river has failed, putting people in two smaller areas at risk. The Freising district administration reported that about a dozen people are affected. An asylum shelter had already been evacuated the day before. The Amper's water levels have surpassed previous records, with the water level at Inkofen reaching 3.98 meters, compared to the previous high of 3.66 meters from 1994.

15:43 More dam breaks anticipated in Swabia

More dam breaks are anticipated in the Swabia region due to the ongoing flood crisis. Officials in the Donau-Ries district have advised residents of Heißesheim and Auchsesheim in Heißesheim to evacuate immediately as their dikes may collapse. According to the Donauwörth district office, "the entire settlement area may be flooded." Emergency shelters have been prepared for the displaced residents.

14:48 Boil water warning expands to several districts

The health department at the Donau-Ries district administration has expanded its boil water advisory, now including Mertingen, Oberndorf, Eggelstetten, Genderkingen, Bäumenheim, Heißesheim, Überfeldsiedlung, Asbach-Bäumenheim, Hamler, and the Kaisheimer districts of Sulzdorf and Gunzenheim. The previous warning only included Mertingen and Oberndorf. This is due to the persistent flood conditions in the area.

14:15 Severe thunderstorm warning for areas in Regierungsbezirk Oberbayern

The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of Regierungsbezirk Oberbayern, including Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen, Berchtesgadener Land, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Miesbach, Rosenheim, and Weilheim-Schongau. Residents can expect heavy rain, strong winds, and potential hail.

13:52 Two Die in Baden-Württemberg, Total Rises to Four

Two more deaths have been reported in Baden-Württemberg, bringing the total number of deaths in Southern Germany's devastating floods up to four. The bodies of a man and a woman were discovered in a flooded house in Schorndorf in the Rems-Murr district.

13:29 THW Fills 2000 Sandbags Every Hour

The ongoing flood crisis has kept rescue workers busy round the clock. The Technical Relief Organization in Donauwörth has been producing 2000 sandbags per hour. Elsewhere, volunteers from the DLRG are helping people escape flooded homes. Rescue workers throughout Bavaria are also working overtime.

13:04 Cars Carried Away by Floods in Rudersberg

Unprecedented floods engulfed several cars in Rudersberg, a flood-prone town in Baden-Württemberg, leaving others resting on train tracks or dangling from a well. The region was beset with chaos, with many homes experiencing flooding. Debris was observed blocking a bridge.

12:42 Emergency services racing against the clock in Schorndorf

The Schorndorf mayor, Bernd Hornikel, detailed the unnerving conditions during the flood crisis in his town. The fire service had to save themselves just as quickly as they were saving others. Despite deploying all seven fire departments, only one arrived due to the rapid arrival of the floodwaters. Three teams were left submerged in their trucks, seeking refuge on their roofs until rescue arrived.

14:06 - A decade after the flood catastrophe, a Donau dam is on the verge of collapsing

The people of the Bavarian Niederalteich have experienced a devastating flood disaster a full eleven years ago. Since then, repairs have been underway on the Donau dams, but one section still remains incomplete. Now, this specific part of the dam poses a threat of breaking.

13:40 - Traffic on A9 resumes; partial closure towards Munich

The partly shut A9 caused by a dam break in Upper Bavaria is now open for traffic again. However, traffic control measures have been put in place in the direction of Munich, a police spokesperson has stated. For the time being, just 300 vehicles are allowed to travel between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck towards the south, after which the road will be closed temporarily. The reason behind this decision is still unclear. The A9 in the direction of Nuremberg has been open since early morning. "Please be aware that this situation may change," the police caution.

13:17 - Scholz expresses the need for solidarity amidst the crisis

Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, a member of the SPD party, visits the Bavarian flood zone and emphasizes the importance of solidarity. "Nature's forces are strong," he said in Reichertshofen, south of Ingolstadt. As he emphasized, assistance is necessary at this time, and the federal government should continue to play a supportive role. Various rescue teams, including the Bundeswehr, are already on the scene. Scholz expressed his gratitude to all those involved and spoke of a firefighter who tragically lost his life. Due to climate change, such flood events are increasingly common, and Scholz has visited disaster areas four times this year.

12:50 - Stranded tourist saved by the fire department

The fire department came to the aid of an 81-year-old tourist who had become trapped in the flood in the Upper Palatinate. The man had driven into a flooded section of road in Hahnbach near Nuernberg to witness the Vils river's flooding. His car became stuck in the water as the level continued to rise. The driver then climbed onto the car's roof through the sliding door and called for help. A nearby passer-by alerted the police. The fire department arrived with a specialized vehicle and successfully extracted the car and the trapped individual from the floodwaters.

12:25 - Evacuation process underway for a Danube cruise ship

According to the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation (BR), the evacuation of a Danube cruise ship is ongoing near Deggendorf. The ship, containing 150 Americans and English tourists, cannot continue its journey on the Danube because of the flood. Thomas Kindel, head of disaster control at the Deggendorf district office, informed BR that a workboat is being used to rescue 25-30 passengers at a time from the harbor.

12:00 - Parallels are drawn between the current flood situation and the 2002 disaster

The Danube's water levels have surged to levels reminiscent of the 2002 flood. A representative from the Danube Flood Warning Service Bavaria indicates that the Danube, known as Europe's second-longest river, will carry about the same amount of water as during the 2002 event. This is observable, for example, when the Isar flows into the Danube in Deggendorf. In Passau, a water level of 10.80 meters was recorded at the Ilzstadt measuring point on August 13, 2002. As of Monday morning, the reading was 7.77 meters, and it's continuing to rise. NTV's weather expert, Paul Heger, describes the flood situation and the potential dangers ahead.

11:27 - Remains of missing woman found in flooded basement

Rescue crews have located the body of a 43-year-old woman who had been missing since Sunday in the flooded basement of a house in flooded Upper Bavaria. Schrobenhausen police have confirmed the loss.

11:21 - Rising water levels of Rems and Murr; nursing home evacuated

In spite of the diminishing rain, the situation in the Ludwigsburg district is still quite critical due to the increasing water levels of Rems and Murr. District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier warns of an acute hazard scenario and further rises in water levels. In Remseck, the peak of the Rems river has not yet been reached, and the command center closely monitors the situation and coordinates the emergency response. A total of approximately 250 members of the fire department are participating in the efforts. Monday morning saw the evacuation of a nursing home in Steinheim an der Murr. The residents and staff were transferred to other facilities.

10:54 - Upper Rhine closed for inland shipping

The Upper Rhine is currently closed for inland shipping due to the flood, as per the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation (BR).

Flood damage in Germany

The floods have caused extensive damage in many areas of Germany, leaving a trail of destruction behind. The highlights of the impact include:

1. Heavily damaged homes, especially in the Bavarian flood zone.
2. A dam break on the Danube in Upper Bavaria.
3. Stranded vehicles and flooded roads, particularly in Nuremberg and Hahnbach.
4. The evacuation of a nursing home in Steinheim an der Murr.
5. A body of a missing woman discovered in a flooded basement in Schrobenhausen.
6. Traffic disruptions due to temporary closures on the A9 and the upper Rhine.
7. An 81-year-old tourist rescued from a flooded road in Hahnbach.
8. A Danube cruise ship unable to continue its journey due to the flood, with evacuation efforts underway near Deggendorf.
9. The current flood is reminiscent of the 2002 flood, with the Danube carrying similar water levels.
10. Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz urging the importance of solidarity during the ongoing crisis.

In response to heavy rainfall, Germany's main waterway, the Rhine, is partially shut down for inland shipping. "Inland shipping on the Upper Rhine has been halted," says an official from the Waterways and Shipping Authority (WSA). "Critical levels have been surpassed at the measurement points." Areas that have been impacted include Maxau near Karlsruhe, Mannheim, and Worms. Along the Middle Rhine (the stretch between Mainz and Bonn), possible closures are anticipated for Tuesday or Wednesday. "According to current forecasts, these shouldn't last long," states the official. The closures are implemented to avoid damage to the banks caused by ship traffic. The vessels create waves that can overflow bank margins and, for instance, inundate basements.

10:27: North Rhine-Westphalia sends rescue personnel and boats to the Bavarian flood region

North Rhine-Westphalia is offering five water rescue units with 48 rescue workers, ten vehicles, eight trailers, and six boats to the flood-affected area in Landau an der Isar. The Ministry of the Interior in Düsseldorf confirms that Bavaria has accepted the aid request on Sunday evening. Follow-up measures were instigated thereafter.

10:04 People in Ebersbach an der Fils are evacuated

In the heavily impacted town of Ebersbach an der Fils south of Stuttgart, locals from several streets are being evacuated for safety reasons. A city spokesperson cannot yet state how many individuals are affected. Warning notices had already been sent to residents who were told to prepare important documents and essential items. Due to the flood conditions, all schools and municipal kindergartens will stay closed today, as announced on the community's Facebook page.

09:41 Search continues for a 43-year-old woman in Schrobenhausen

In Schrobenhausen in the Pfaffenhofen district, authorities are still searching for a missing 43-year-old woman with the assistance of a helicopter and divers. A false report had circulated the previous night that she had been discovered dead. The Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation subsequently corrected the information, indicating that the search continues. Due to being unable to enter the submerged cellar of her home the day before, pumps are now being employed in the building, a police spokesperson explains. The search for the 43-year-old, last spotted in her home's basement, is ongoing.

09:12 Söder: Flooding in Bavaria will persist for several more days

Bavaria's premier, Markus Söder, anticipates that flood-related emergency management will consume authorities in the state for multiple days. "It's improving somewhat, but we cannot yet remove the warning," he explains in a conversation with Deutschlandfunk on Monday. Even if rainfall ends, the water levels of the larger rivers will still increase as a result of inflows, according to Söder. "Most people say it'll last until Wednesday or Thursday."

08:41 Third dam failure in Pfaffenhofen district

The Paar river dam in the Upper Bavarian Pfaffenhofen district has now been breached at three different locations, discloses an official from the district administration. The affected locations in Bäar-Ebenhausen and Manching request that residents living on the ground floor of their homes and apartments vacate these areas and relocate to higher floors. Approximately 800 individuals were evacuated in Bäar-Ebenhausen. About 250 people were housed at the Grund- and Mittelschule Reichertshofen. The Paar is a tributary that feeds into the Danube. The Danube is also being closely monitored in Vohburg, with safety measures being taken. The A9 remains closed in both directions between Ingolstadt and Langenbruck, as per the updates.

08:21 Dam in Manching damaged

In Manching-Pichl of the Pfaffenhofen district, another dam has sustained damages, as various news outlets report, citing the district administration. Local authorities urge residents to vacate the ground floor of their homes and apartments and seek refuge in their upper floors. The streets affected are Benediktstraße, Martinstraße, and Peterstraße.

08:01 Firefighters in Rudersberg trapped by floodwater

In Rudersberg in the Rems-Murr-Kreis of Baden-Württemberg, firefighters were taken by surprise by the rapidly rising water levels, reports ntv's on-site reporter. Firefighters obtained to assist residents, but their endeavors were obstructed when they attempted to reach people stranded in their homes. Emergency personnel could only safeguard themselves by navigating to the upper floors of houses and had to stay there for hours. The firehose was also reported to be immersed. Vehicles were relocated to a higher location, but this region was subsequently inundated. Two vehicles had to be left behind to avoid any risk.

07:39 Disaster status declared in Regensburg

The water level of the Danube is rising further - and now Regensburg has formally declared a disaster. The water level at the Eiserne Brücke gauge is at 5.90 meters, according to the Bavarian flood warning service. As of Tuesday, the average value typically stands at 2.70 meters. Based on expert data, the water reached an exact 6.82-meter height during a previous significant flood on June 4, 2013.

7:20 Helicopter rescuers save family from Günzburg balconies and rooftops

• Water rescue experts from the Wasserwacht saved 12 individuals from their balconies and rooftops in Günzburg with the assistance of a police helicopter, as reported by Bayerischer Rundfunk.
• Rescuing by boat was no longer possible due to the rising water levels.
• Among those saved was a family consisting of three children, the youngest of whom was just a week old.

6:50 Authorities fear dam rupture in Manching

• The Integrated Control Center Ingolstadt has issued a warning for a possible dam rupture in Manching, which is within the Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen.
• Residents are advised to stay on higher floors and avoid cellars and underground garages.
• In the neighbouring Baar-Ebenhausen, a dam broke on Sunday.

6:16 People evacuated from homes in Uhingen due to flooding

• Floods in the Filstal area of Uhingen south of Stuttgart have prompted the evacuation of some houses.
• According to a police spokesperson, the evacuations took place in the town of Göppingen.
• Fortunately, there were no reported injuries.
• The municipalities of Göppingen anticipate that many individuals are at risk.
• An extraordinary emergency situation was declared.

5:33 Communities in Ostalbkreis evacuated due to flooding

• The situation in Baden-Württemberg's Ostalbkreis is worsening due to the flooding.
• People in the communities of Leinzell, Heuchlingen and Göggingen were evacuated during the night to Monday due to impending flooding, according to a crisis management spokesperson.
• The entire community of Taferrot was also to be evacuated.
• The first floodwaters had already reached Taferrot by early Monday morning.
• Around 250 to 300 people were taken to safe locations.

5:13 Baden-Württemberg aids Bavaria with deployment of emergency personnel

• In response to the ongoing flood situation, Baden-Württemberg has dispatched emergency personnel to the neighbouring Bavarian district of Günzburg.
• Three "Sanitation and Care" units have been sent to the district, as requested by Bavaria's Interior Ministry.
• Their duties include providing care and support for those who had to leave their homes due to the flooding.
• In addition, a water rescue vehicle from Ulm will be deployed in Günzburg to assist in evacuating people.

4:30 Esslingen constructs provisional dam to prevent flooding

• The city of Esslingen am Neckar is constructing a provisional dam to prevent potential flooding in parts of the inner city.
• The peak is expected early in the morning, and flooding of the canals in the affected areas could result.
• To build the dam, approximately 1500 tons of stone and sand will be piled up at night and on Monday morning.
• Traffic disruptions can be anticipated around the construction site.
• Residents were also asked to avoid entering basements and underground garages due to the hazardous flood situation.

3:26 Ebersbach an der Fils prepares residents for evacuation

• The flood-stricken community of Ebersbach an der Fils south of Stuttgart has prepared some residents for evacuations.
• Residents of certain streets were advised to pack necessary items and prepare to spend the night outside their homes.
• It is important to stay in the upper floors of their houses.
• The fire department Ebersbach will be attending to these residents, according to the city's Facebook page.

3:11 Weather warnings withdrawn but heavy rain expected

• The German Weather Service (DWD) has withdrawn all severe weather warnings for heavy thunderstorms with heavy rain in Germany.
• Despite this, localized heavy rain showers are possible in southern Germany, accompanied by possible heavy rainfall.
• From noon onwards, areas south of the Danube, as well as near the Bavarian Forest, will be impacted.
• Small-scale thunderstorms are also a possibility.

2:04 Flood tourists cause issues in Landkreis Augsburg

• Tourists exploring flooded areas are causing problems for emergency personnel in Landkreis Augsburg.
• The rescue teams are having to deal with more people who have disregarded warnings and gone to the dikes, underpasses, and water.
• The district administration has requested that people stay away from these areas to allow the rescue teams to operate more efficiently.
• The potential for flood waves catching people off guard and dams collapsing is significant.
• Drivers and pedestrians are also advised to avoid flooded streets and flooded underpasses, as they pose a threat due to the potential for manhole covers to be pushed up by the water pressure in the canals and suck people in.

On Monday, Baden-Württemberg's Minister President Winfried Kretschmann and Interior Minister Thomas Strobl plan to visit two flood-stricken areas in the region. Their itinerary includes a visit to Meckenbeuren in the Bodenseekreis in the morning, followed by a visit to Erbach in the Alb-Donau-Kreis. Kretschmann deliberately chose not to carry out a site assessment on Sunday, saying, "I decided not to go to the site in the acute situation where every hand is needed and every sandbag can make a difference, but to stay informed continuously and closely." He acknowledged that emergency services are operating at full capacity, as he stated on Sunday afternoon.

Full alert in Ebersbach an der Fils at 23:50A full alert was issued in the small town of Ebersbach an der Fils near Stuttgart due to the flooding. This means all firefighters are on duty. Water masses have broken through a sound barrier on the B10, flooding the road. The city's Facebook page posted a video of the flooded road with the warning, "Please stay at home [sic] and do not go to the emergency sites. There is partial danger of life, as you can see on the video. Please do not run into the water, everywhere there could be manhole covers that you cannot see!!!" The citizens were also instructed not to go into their basements and to stay on the upper floors.

43-year-old found dead in a cellar (Wrong)The Bayerischer Rundfunk reported that the storm in southern Germany had caused yet another fatality. The person, who was initially said to be a woman, was found dead in a cellar.

Correction: Bayerischer Rundfunk later clarified that the 43-year-old was still missing and had not been found dead.

Signal box failure at 22:16A signal box malfunction caused by a lightning strike resulted in disruption of regional traffic in and around Dresden. The railway spokesperson stated it was the regional train from Dresden to Bautzen and Görlitz that was affected. The signal box in Radeberg, east of the state capital, was repaired by the evening, and normal operations resumed about two hours later.

Nursing home evacuated in LauingenA nursing home near the Danube in Lauingen is being evacuated to ensure the ongoing care of the residents. The city confirmed that all the residents had been accommodated and taken care of in an educational center.

Evacuations due to a dam breach at 21:30Several communities near the Danube and the Schmutter in Bavaria's Donau-Ries district must be evacuated due to a dam break. The affected areas include Auchsesheim, Heißesheim, parts of Nordheim, Mertingen, Asbach-Baumenheim, and Urfahrhof. Instruction was given to stay calm, pack necessary items, and follow the instructions of the emergency services. Safety measures, such as emergency shelters, have been set up.

Scholz and Faeser to visit the Bavarian flood areaFederal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser will visit the Bavarian flood area on Monday. They will do this together with Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann in Reichertshofen, Upper Bavaria's Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm district. The President of the Technical Relief Organization, Sabine Lackner, is also scheduled to attend the meeting.

Numerous schools will stay closed on MondayAt least 40 schools in eight districts in Bavaria will remain shut for the new week because of the flood situation. Affected districts include Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Aichach-Friedberg, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Freising, Fürstenfeldbruck, Dachau, Dillingen, and Augsburg. Primary, secondary, grammar, vocational, and specialized schools in Aichach-Friedberg district will not hold classes on Monday. Schools in Wertingen, Dillingen, and parts of Schrobenhausen will also be closed Monday and Tuesday (primary, secondary, grammar, vocational school, special school). Kindergartens will also be closed in some areas of Pfaffenhofen.

Still unsure about whether the 43-year-old was found dead or was still missing? Then, apparently, you're not alone, as Bayerischer Rundfunk had initially mistakenly reported that the person had been found dead. The truth emerged when they clarified the information, stating that the 43-year-old was still being searched for.

Two big events happened within a pretty short time span toward the end of the text. The first one being the signal box failure, there's no surprise here, these things happen, and it didn't seem to affect too many people or stop the train completely. The second event has significantly larger political implications: Federal Chancellor Scholz and Interior Minister Faeser are planning to visit the flood-affected area together with Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann as well as the President of the Technical Relief Organization, Sabine Lackner. At that point, the three heads of government will provide their insights and help assess the situation on the ground.

Finally, poor little schools, no classes again for some of them on Monday due to the flood. Their students, too, have to deal with the impact of the disaster and the disruption it's caused. Some even have to figure out where to stay for a couple of days, pending evacuation orders.

And that concludes our rundown of the latest flood-related happenings in Germany. Tune in tomorrow for more updates! Don't forget to share your thoughts and discuss the news in the comment section. See you then!

In the region of Swabia, approximately thirty communities are experiencing power outages as reported by the power grid operator LEW. This also includes outages in local grids (low voltage), impacting individual streets and households. The majority of the outages are occurring in the districts of Günzburg, Augsburg, and Dillingen. The emergency services are working on restoring power supply by switching to other lines if feasible in the current situation, but the duration of the outages varies depending on each location.

In Günzburg, Bavaria, over a thousand people have been evacuated and are currently being accommodated in halls and, in some cases, at Legoland. The decision for the evacuations was made due to the significant increase in the Günz river level within the last few hours.

The German Weather Service (DWD) issues a warning for heavy rain in the southern regions of Germany. On Sunday evening, severe rainfall is anticipated, especially in the Stuttgart area, as well as strong thunderstorms with heavy rain in the Alps. From Saxony to southern Brandenburg and towards Berlin, heavy rain is also likely, and in the night, the Black Forest, Swabian Alb, and Alpine Foreland up to the Bavarian Forest might experience thunderstorms with heavy rain. On Monday morning, showers are expected in the Alpine Foreland south of the Danube, followed by more thunderstorms later in the day, and even heavy rain in the Bavarian Forest. The risk of heavy rain, locally up to 40 liters per square meter per hour, remains a concern.

Straubing's mayor, Markus Pannermayr, has declared a disaster alert due to the worsening flood situation along the Danube. This was necessary due to the complicated demands and the associated labor force needed. The Danube level in Straubing has now surpassed six meters, and the level 4 alert is expected to be exceeded in the next few hours. The municipalities are continuing their efforts to handle the situation. Roads have already been closed due to flooding in some areas.

The partly-flooded community of Meckenbeuren in Friedrichshafen is advising against flood tourism. Visitors would interfere with rescue operations and put themselves and others in danger. Even if it's currently not raining or only raining slightly, officials urge people to avoid the flood zone and respect the closures on bridges and roads. The Schussen River broke through its bank on Saturday evening, flooding streets and houses in the Kehlen and Brochenzell districts, and the police and firefighters are continuously reminding people of the potential danger of the fast-moving current.

The German Weather Service (DWD) declares an official warning for severe thunderstorms in the Brandenburg Oder-Spree district until Sunday afternoon. There's a high risk of lightning strikes, uprooted trees, gusts, or falling objects at the second-highest alert level. Damage to houses and landslides are also possible, as well as hail.

Two more districts, Dachau and Kelheim, have declared disaster areas due to the flooding. Kelheim's district administrator Martin Neumeyer remarks that the situation, together with the predictions for water levels, remains tense. Dachau's district administrator Stefan Löwl agrees, stating that local forces can no longer manage the numerous deployment sites during the coming hours.

Deutsche Bahn has extended its leniency regulation to Monday for passengers affected by the weather in southern Germany. Those with tickets from Sunday to Monday can postpone their journey and receive a voucher for free travel at a later date. The extent of the traffic impact is unclear, but train services are experiencing disruptions on several long-distance routes in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. It is advised against traveling in areas affected by flooding.

Trains have been derailed on several routes, including Munich-Nuremberg-Berlin, Stuttgart-Mannheim-Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Crailsheim-Nuremberg and Karlsruhe-Stuttgart-Ulm-Augsburg-Munich. The railway cautions against traveling in regions in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg that are being affected by flooding.

In Bavaria, almost 3,000 people have been forced to leave their homes due to flooding. This is what a representative from the Bavarian Interior Ministry in Munich has said. For the numerous locations affected by the floods, there are currently around 20,000 emergency personnel working, and since the start of the situation, this number has been as high as 40,000.

15:51 Weather expert: "I can't even imagine the destruction"

The flood situation in the south is slowly improving, as reported by Bernd Fuchs, a meteorologist. "Every drop is too much," emphasizes the ntv weather expert. When asked about a possible connection to the climate crisis, he sees the current situation as a "clear sign of where things are heading."

15:22 Stunning: Man critically injured by lightning while helping out in the flooded area

A man was seriously injured by a lightning strike while helping with flood relief efforts in the Upper Bavarian district of Freising. A spokesperson for the Upper Bavaria North Police Presidium reports that the 27-year-old employee of an energy company was severely shocked by electricity. He was rescued from a flooded area near the Town Hall in Allershausen and flown to a hospital by a rescue helicopter. It is believed that his work was related to the floods.

15:02: Shipping on the Upper Rhine has been stopped

Due to heavy rainfall in South Germany, the water levels along the Rhine have risen, causing some shipping along the Upper Rhine near Karlsruhe to be halted. The Rhine High Water Forecast Center Rhineland-Palatinate reports that no ships have been allowed to sail in this section since Saturday. The level at Maximiliansau reached 7.50 meters on Saturday evening, critical for shipping, and it had already reached 8.20 meters by Sunday afternoon. It was expected to decrease again at night on Monday, but rising water levels are expected downstream in Mannheim, Worms, and Mainz. On the Middle and Lower Rhine, high water levels could also pose a threat to shipping on this crucial waterway. The Koblenz gauge is expected to be at about 6.10 meters on Tuesday, and no ships should be allowed to sail once it reaches 6.50 meters. On Wednesday, the highest levels are expected in Cologne and Düsseldorf.

14:38: Part of the Autobahn A9 is closed for around 50 kilometers

The Autobahn A9 is closed for approximately 50 kilometers in the Pfaffenhofen district in Bavaria due to a dam break. A spokesperson for the Upper Bavaria North police department reports that a section between Allershausen and Ingolstadt is impacted. The road is flooded in places, and there are also power outages. Many people are affected. Measures are being taken to resolve the issue. The district administration has asked residents of the towns of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching to leave the ground floor of their homes and apartments and move to higher floors.

Update 15:23 p.m.: According to the Autobahn GmbH, the affected section is between Ingolstadt-South and Langenbruck in both directions. In addition, the section between Pfaffenhofen and the Autobahn junction Neufahrn is severely restricted. It is recommended to bypass the entire area widely.

13:59: Economy Minister Habeck calls for more climate protection efforts

Economy Minister Robert Habeck urges greater efforts for climate protection after the flood disaster in South Germany has subsided. "Reducing CO2 emissions, so that we have enough time to adapt, must not be mocked or suppressed, but is the highest priority," says Habeck during a visit to the flood-affected Reichertshofen in Bavaria. The frequency of natural disasters is "a clear indication that nature and climate are changing." These types of floods now occur "about once every few years."

13:34: Chancellor Scholz plans to visit flood-stricken regions on Monday

Chancellor Olaf Scholz plans to visit the flood-stricken areas personally on Monday to get an idea of the situation. This information was provided by government sources.

13:21 22-year-old firefighter missing after rescue operation in Offingen

A 22-year-old firefighter is missing following a rescue operation in Offingen, in the district of Günzburg. A spokesperson for the Schwaben Süd-West police headquarters confirmed this. The man was with a colleague from the voluntary fire department and three helpers from the DLRG in a boat during a rescue operation at around 2:50 a.m. when the boat capsized. Four of the helpers were rescued from the water, while the 22-year-old remained missing. He has been thoroughly searched for since early in the morning. Two helicopters are now in use. A 42-year-old firefighter has already lost his life in a flood operation.

The new week fails to bring any relief in the flood-stricken regions of southern Germany. Bjoern Alexander of ntv's meteorology department reported that the relentless, expansive rainfall still pervades the area, while localized thunderstorms have further formed.

12:52 Paar Dam: Avert Dam Burst Threat in Rottmannshart, Westenhausen, Lindach, Ernsgaden, Irsching, and Knodorf

In Pfaffenhofen, residents are urged to evacuate their homes' ground floors and basements immediately due to potential dam ruptures on the Paar. Authorities caution that should severe emergencies arise, residents may contact the fire department at 112.

This information was provided by government sources.

12:39 Söder on Bavarian Flood Crisis: 40,000 Emergency Responders on the Move

As per Markus Söder, the Bavarian Minister-President, approximately 40,000 emergency responders are being deployed to tackle the flood crisis across Bavaria. Söder, while visiting Upper Bavaria's Reichertshofen, stated, "it's vital to manage the relief operations pristinely in the coming hours." Workers who've put in significant time in the field must be relieved, as it lowers the likelihood of errors or fatigue, ultimately increasing danger to people's safety.

12:29 Straubing: Establishing Dam Guards

The Donaupegel in Straubing will attain alert level four, indicating a critical hazard, according to the Hochwassernachrichtendienst (HND) Bayern. Starting 3 p.m., dam guards will be stationed, with fire brigade personnel monitoring the dam and reporting on the water levels and any dam damage. Also, more sandbags are being filled.

12:03 Baar-Ebenhausen: Dam Burst Endangers Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching

In Pfaffenhofen district, a dam breached in Baar-Ebenhausen. Affected are the towns of Reichertshofen, Baar-Ebenhausen, and Manching. Citizens are instructed to evacuate the ground floor of their homes.

11:37 Chancellor Scholz Pays Tribute to Rescuers in Flood-Affected Regions

Chancellor Olaf Scholz acknowledges and appreciates the rescue workers and helpers in flood zones. "I mourn the firefighter who lost his life in Pfaffenhofen," writes the SPD politician on X. "My thoughts and sympathies are with his peers." A firefighter was killed while working on a rescue mission during nighttime in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm's flood-stricken district.

11:25 Baetzing Addresses Catholics in Flood-Affected Areas at Erfurt's Catholic Day

Georg Baetzing, Catholic Bishops Conference's chairperson, conveyed a message of hope and protection for those who've experienced the recent storms at the Erfurt Catholic Day's closing Mass. He encouraged everyone to pray for human lives' preservation.

10:59 Meckenbeuren, Bodenseekreis: Parts Submerged Underwater

Kehlen and Brochenzell districts in the city of Meckenbeuren, Bodenseekreis, are underwater due to the overflowing Schussen river, flooding streets. Around 1300 people vacated their homes last Saturday, moving to safety. Certain residents opted to remain in their abodes and moved to the upper floors. The Schussen's water level breached 4.86 meters on Saturday night, although it's been decreasing since then. Regularly, this river barely reaches 45cm depth in that region.

10:34 Söder Pays Tribute to Fallen Firefighter

Söder, the Bavarian Minister-President, honored the firefighter who lost his life in a rescue attempt in the Bavarian flood zones, posting a tribute on X. He expressed, "his selflessness and dedication towards his fellow human beings will always be commemorated." The deceased, a 42-year-old volunteer firefighter, is believed to have passed away after a rescue boat capsized around Affalterbach and Uttenhofen due to the submerged buildings.

10:09 Training Session Postponed: Ukraine Relocates Pre-Match Preparations for DFB

Due to excessive rainfall, the Ukrainian national football team must relocate their final training session, planned on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. at Nuremberg's Max-Morlock-Stadion. Instead, the team will train in Erlangen to preserve the stadium's grass. With Monday's EM test match between the German and Ukrainian national football teams scheduled for 8:45 p.m./ARD at Nuremberg, a spokesperson from the Ukrainian team announced the change of training location.

The Munich region has also been hit by heavy rains for several hours. Since 6 am on Saturday, the fire department has responded to over 290 incidents, as per the Munich Fire Department. The majority of the firefighters' efforts have gone into draining fully-flooded cellars and underground garages. Additionally, several trees have been uprooted due to the extremely wet ground, and roads have been closed. On Saturday evening, the flood hazard level 2 of the Isar was exceeded.

9:24 Water rushes through after dam burst in Anhausen

The flood situation in Anhausen is gradually improving after a dam broke 5 kilometers away, rapidly flooding the area. "People who were evacuated here are gradually returning," says NTV reporter Niklas Diemer. However, critical water levels persist in other areas.

9:08 THW deploys more personnel to flood-hit regions in southern Germany

The Technical Relief Organization (THW) is dispatching additional personnel to the flooded areas in southern Germany. Over 1800 individuals have been put to work so far, according to a spokesperson. The volunteers are tasked with securing dams, filling sandbags, and assisting with evacuations of residents in flooded regions. The fire department and other emergency services are also actively responding.

8:47 Landslide in Baden-Württemberg blocks train and car

The flood situation in parts of Germany remains concerning. The southern region, particularly Baden-Württemberg, is still experiencing heavy water masses, and there's even a threat of a 100-year flood. The rescue services and helpers are reaching their limits.

8:30 ICE to be recovered from landslide on Sunday morning

The affected ICE train in Baden-Württemberg is set to be recovered on Sunday morning. The regional train cannot pass through this section of the track, says a spokesperson. A rescue locomotive will be on the second track of the line to help with the recovery. It's unknown how long the closure will last. In the meantime, the regional train has managed to pass the ICE. On Saturday evening, two carriages of the ICE with 185 passengers derailed due to a landslide.

8:16 Individual missing in Schrobenhausen

In Schrobenhausen, a person is reported missing. The individual was believed to be in the basement of a house when the flood hit. The basement and parts of the upper floor are now submerged in water, reports a spokesperson for the Neuburg-Schrobenhausen district office. Rescue teams cannot currently reach the building.

7:44 Firefighter dies in floodwaters in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria

A firefighter has lost their life in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria. Three colleagues capsized with the firefighting boat, and the firefighter passed away in the morning, as per a spokesperson for the district administration.

7:29 Flood shifts downstream - numerous locations at level 4

In Bavaria, flood levels of the highest level 4 are being reported at multiple locations. The focus remains on the southern Donau tributaries of Günz, Mindel, Zusam, Schmutter, Paar, Abens, Ilm, and Amper, as well as the upper Danube. The peak has been reached at night. As the wave moves downstream - from Swabia to Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate - potentially affected areas could include Neuburg, Kelheim, Regensburg, and Straubing. The peak wave is not expected to reach these areas until early next week. In particular, rising water levels are foreseen in Mühlried in the Schrobenhausen district and in Manching and Geisenfeld in Upper Bavaria, as well as in Abensberg in the Kelheim district, on Sunday.

6:54 Meteorological service predicts more heavy rain in the south

Heavy rain is expected again in wide areas of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, according to the forecast of the German Weather Service (DWD). From noon on Sunday to Monday night, there's the potential for severe thunderstorms with heavy rain. Streets and basements could flood once more. There's also a possibility of damage from lightning strikes, the DWD forecast notes.

6:27 Augsburg district extends evacuations

In the flooded areas of Bavaria's Augsburg district, authorities are expanding evacuation orders. Residents should immediately leave the communities of Kühlenthal and Allmannshofen, warns the integrated control center early in the morning. Buses are being made available for those who cannot evacuate independently. On Saturday evening and during the night, evacuation notices were issued for other parts of the district as well. Most of the affected locations are situated along the Schmutter River, a tributary of the Danube.

5:39

05:05 Authorities in Wiesbaden taking precautions against rising water levels on the Rhine and Main

In Wiesbaden, officials are taking action to combat rising water levels on the Rhine and Main. In the district of Kostheim, they've erected a flood protection wall, as reported by the fire department early in the morning. In Schierstein, a pump has been installed in preparation for the incoming water. The fire department urges visitors to avoid waterfront parking lots in the near future. For now, it's anticipated that no additional measures will be necessary.

04:04 No long-distance train traffic between Stuttgart and Munich due to landslide

A landslide in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Baden-Württemberg, has led to the suspension of long-distance train service between Stuttgart and Munich. A railway spokesperson lacks an estimate on when the closure will end in the early hours of the morning. The landslide has resulted in the blockage of a bypass between Aalen and Stuttgart. This comes after the previous closure of the line between Ulm and Augsburg due to flooding in southern Germany, forcing long-distance trains to reroute.

03:13 THW in Ulm fills 30,000 sandbags to aid flood-stricken areas

Technical Relief Organization (THW) members in Ulm filled 30,000 sandbags during a nighttime operation. These were destined for areas experiencing or threatened by floods in both Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. According to Bernd Urban, head of the THW Logistics Center, they could produce 400 sandbags per hour. Requests for sandbags were received from a range of deployment areas in the southwest, as well as from adjacent regions in the neighboring state of Bavaria. Sustained rain has had the effect of raising water levels significantly at several locations in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria.

02:25 Red Cross sends water rescue team from Unterfranken to aid in disaster response in Swabia

The Bavarian Red Cross is dispatching a water rescue unit from Unterfranken to aid in the relief effort in Swabia. The unit is expected to deploy in the heavily impacted district of Günzburg, as the Red Cross announced in the evening. The water rescue teams from Unterfranken are specially trained in flood relief operations, including two boat and diving squads. In Günzburg, several waterways have reached the level of a century flood, which represents a flood that occurs or surpasses the statistical average of once per century.

01:27 ICE train cars derail in Schwaebisch Gmuend due to landslide

In Schwaebisch Gmuend, Baden-Württemberg, two carriages from an ICE train with 185 passengers derailed due to a landslide in the late evening. The passengers escaped unharmed and are currently being relocated to a nearby kindergarten. The landslide was approximately 30 meters wide, according to a railway representative. The first two cars jumped off the tracks at around 23:20, but did not tip over.

00:59 Vehicle stuck in landslide in Schwaebisch Gmuend

A car has encountered a landslide in the Württemberg town of Schwaebisch Gmuend, according to initial police reports from the nighttime. The driver of the vehicle remains unscathed. The landslide occurred near both the roadway and the adjacent railway line. Schwaebisch Gmuend is located about 50 kilometers east of Stuttgart. Consistent rainfall has been occurring in vast areas of Baden-Württemberg since Friday.

00:14 Neu-Ulm avoids 100-year flood but faces damage assessment

The city of Neu-Ulm has surpassed the peak of its flood wave on the Danube and Iller, as per an estimate by the city administration. The town managed to avoid the feared 100-year flood. However, Mayor Katrin Albsteiger stated, "We won't know until the situation normalizes how much damage has occurred." Two streets, some Danube embankments, and the cycle paths along the Danube and Iller will remain closed for now.

23:44 Munich Fire Department issues warning for Isar River bank

The Munich Fire Department has issued a warning for the Isar River bank due to flooding. Moreover, two popular walking paths by the river have been closed down. The Isar River has reached flood level 2, which indicates flooding on unbuilt areas or traffic disruptions due to high water on the streets.

23:23 Evacuation operations underway in Schrobenhausen, Upper Bavaria

670 people in the Upper Bavarian town of Schrobenhausen are set to be evacuated by firefighters and rescue teams. Excavators and boats are currently in use for the operation in the Mühldorf district and along the Weilach River. The district office has established a citizens' hotline for emergencies. The municipality had previously declared a disaster situation. The district administrator, Peter von der Grün, conveys that the situation is especially concerning in the southern part of Upper Bavaria.

22:48 Numerous fires in Eastern Thuringia due to heavy rain and thunderstorms

In Eastern Thuringia, there are several fire interventions taking place due to the continuous heavy rain and thunderstorms. Reportedly, the region around Ronneburg in the Greiz district is being affected the most. There are flooded roads, fields, and cellars. In Gera, a small creek has also started to overflow.

19:35 Weather service cautions of potential flooding in southern Germany, but for now remains calm

In the flooded or threatened areas across South Germany, the Weather Service reports a slight decrease in rainfall. However, a Weather Service meteorologist mentions that strong showers and thunderstorms from the north are approaching, which could potentially increase the risk of local flooding by Sunday afternoons. These showers could be quite powerful and last for a long time. If they hit the already saturated grounds, there will be rising water levels.

The areas most at risk are the Swabian Alb, northern areas, and regions around Augsburg, Bamberg, Regensburg, and Nuremberg.

18:50 Freising declares disaster due to rising water levels

The Freising district has declared a disaster situation due to the rising water levels of the Amper and Glonn rivers. A massive flooding is anticipated in the town of Hohenkammer as well as in all settlements along the Amper. Authorities have advised locals to prepare beforehand for serious flooding and advised them to clear their cellars.

If the ten districts in Bavaria experience this emergency, it is the second-largest disaster of its kind this year.

17:40 Dillingen also declares disaster situation due to continuous rainfall

The Dillingen district in Bavaria has joined the list of municipalities in the state that have declared a disaster situation due to the ongoing rainfall. According to the authority, the situation on the Zusam River (a tributary of the Danube) is getting worse, and they have called for Bundeswehr help. The experts predict a 100-year flood on this small river, which could impact the surrounding towns of Buttenwiesen and Wertingen.

The authorities have also started preparations to release water from the swollen Danube into the Riedstrom, another former floodplain of the river. They are appealing to local farmers to secure their livestock in stable compounds.

17:11 8th municipality in Bavaria declares disaster situation

The Landkreis Neuburg-Schrobenhausen has declared a state of disaster due to the continual rainfall and the swelling waters of the Danube and its tributaries. The Neuburg Gauge is expected to have level 4, while the situation at the Weilach, a tributary that connects with the Paar, is described as "dramatic."

The Weilach has already overflown in the Schrobenhausen-Mühlried district, flooding a residential area. Authorities are preparing to evacuate residents. The southern part of the district is of particular concern to officials. Their priority is to protect key infrastructure like roads, bridges, and walkways, to ensure the fire department can continue to help with rescue operations.

16:38 Red Cross saving people from their homes in Babenhausen

The Bavarian Red Cross has airlifted two people from their rooftop in Babenhausen after their home was at risk of collapsing. Other people were also taken to safety by inflatable boats.

16:00 People in many communities near Augsburg urged to evacuate their homes and apartments

In several areas within the Augsburg district, the slight calm in the flooding has passed, and people are being urged to leave their homes and apartments. A district administration spokesperson states the northern part of the district will experience worsening conditions in the evening.

The areas affected in the Augsburg district include Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and the entire community of Nordendorf. The people of Swabia have set up a temporary shelter at the Augsburg fairgrounds.

15:30 Rescue crews had to remove people from their cars trapped in the water

Extreme water levels in certain regions resulted in rescue crews helping people trapped in their vehicles. In cases like these, it's likely the people wouldn't be able to open their car doors themselves due to the rising waters. The rescue teams managed to save more than 100 people, including many children.

15:00 More people are being asked to leave their homes in parts of Upper Swabia

Water rescuers were forced to free people from their cars in several areas where extreme water levels were presenting a significant danger. Some people had already opened their car doors, however, others could not do so because of the water masses.

The effect of this is that individuals could quickly find themselves in a life-threatening situation.

In several Augsburg district communities, including Batzenhofen, Gablingen, Langweid, Eisenbrechtshofen, Biberbach, Allmannshofen, and Nordendorf, residents are being asked to evacuate their homes. The situation in the northern part of the district is believed to worsen later, as reported by a district administration spokesperson.

The Swabian government has established a temporary shelter at the Augsburg fairgrounds.

German military troops are assisting in the flood disaster relief efforts in the districts of Günzburg and Aichach-Friedberg, Bavaria. They've been requested by local authorities to aid in distribution of blankets and field beds around Günzburg, as well as sending 50 soldiers as "helping hands" in Aichach-Friedberg where two military trucks are being used. Meanwhile, the Federal Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, has pledged additional help from the Technical Relief Organization (THW) to assist with rescues, collapsed dikes, and water pumping efforts. As of Saturday evening, 520 THW helpers have been active. Faeser expressed her gratitude to all those involved in the ongoing fight against the flood waters and encouraged those in flood-stricken regions in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg to heed warnings and instructions from the authorities.

On this Saturday evening, 29 climbers at the Zugspitze who were in a distressing situation have been successfully rescued and taken to the Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin at the Zugspitzplatt. The weather had remained severe with new snowfall and a storm, trapping them at around 2500 meters above sea level. The mountain rescue service was active along with Zugspitzbahn employees, who used snow groomers to locate the climbers.

Down south in parts of Brandenburg, a storm warning has been issued for the districts of Dahme-Spreewald, Märkisch-Oderland, and Oder-Spree by the German Weather Service (DWD), with a second highest warning level in effect until evening. This comes with the possible risks of lightning strikes, fallen trees or power lines, flying objects, quick road flooding, landslides, and hail.

Traffic on the A3 motorway in Bavaria near Regensburg has been impacted by rising floodwaters. About 10 kilometers between the exits Parsberg and Beratzhausen have been partially closed, with police, firefighters, and the Autobahnmeisterei responding.

In Memmingen, Bavaria, a prison is being evacuated due to possible flooding. About 150 prisoners are to be relocated temporarily to Landsberg, Kempten, and Augsburg, as the Kreisbach river, just in front of the prison, has swelled into an out-of-control torrent that threatens to flood the institution. Parts of the prison courtyard are already underwater which may result in a power outage, prompting the decision for planned evacuation. This comes with police, firefighters, and the local fire department pumping water out of the prison.

Water levels on several swabian rivers have reached level 4 due to heavy rain and flooding. In Bavaria and the Upper Palatinate, the Neu-Ulm Bad Held (Danube), Hasberg (Mindel), Fleinhausen (Zusam), Fischach (Schmutter), and Nattenhausen (Günz) gauges have all reached this threshold, with Dasing (Paar) and Regen River in Cham also projected to reach this level. Hundred-year floods have been reported in Nattenhausen (Günz) and Dasing (Paar).

The heavy rain, leading to flooding at gauges across Swabia, is causing issues for these areas. The High Water Information Service (HND) has reported this at gauges in Neu-Ulm Bad Held (Danube), Hasberg (Mindel), Fleinhausen (Zusam), Fischach (Schmutter), and Nattenhausen (Günz). Dasing (Paar) and the Regen River in Cham, Upper Palatinate are also approaching that level 4. Hundred-year floods have been reported in Nattenhausen (Günz) and Dasing (Paar).

The water level in the Pegel Wiblingen (Iller) is predicted to reach its peak in Meldestufe 3 on Saturday and Sunday, while the water levels in the lower Iller are currently decreasing. In the northern Donau tributaries Wörnitz, Sulzach, Altmuhl, Schwarze Laber, and Naab, there are specific gauges that have exceeded Meldestufe 1 and 2 with an upward trend. From Neu-Ulm to Kelheim, the water levels are projected to reach Meldestufe 3 during the day, for instance, in Gunzburg, Donauwörth, and Neuburg. The Pegel Kelheim is expected to follow at night. In the further Donau section to Passau, increases to Meldestufe 1 and 2 are expected.

5:23 Flight operations at Munich Airport are proceeding as usual

Despite the heavy rain in several areas of Bavaria, flight operations at Munich Airport are running smoothly. No flights have been stopped so far. Robert Wilhelm, a representative from the airport, told BR, "We notice the water standing in the fields next to the runways." The airport is also built higher. Additionally, the runways are sloped towards the sides, enabling the water to drain off. The runways are also "grooved," meaning they have grooves that promote water runoff. As a result, there is no danger of aquaplaning, Wilhelm reported to the Bavarian broadcaster. There are no significant complications forecasted for the rest of the weekend.

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=176yJTZ-x3Cs60Q8Y81YKG-j95-1ZJ2lqEU-KQm_HX9Yw71lF

5:07 Söder: "Things are only just beginning now"

Minister President Markus Söder is visiting the hard-hit region of Swabia. He praised the efforts of the rescuers and authorities during his visit to Diedorf, a town in the Augsburg district. Söder acknowledged the predicament faced by the citizens. He added, "This is not over yet. Things are only just beginning now." SWabia is the current focus of the storm, leading to the distribution of resources, such as sandbags, to the area. "Without the helpers, we wouldn't have a chance," Söder appreciated the assistants like the fire department, Bavarian Red Cross, police, and Technical Relief Organization. He urged the population to adhere to the guidelines. Follow all evacuation requests, don't return to your cellar, and refrain from attempting to drive your car out of the garage.

4:40 Trains have ceased operations in South Germany

The storms and floods in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria are affecting train traffic. Deutsche Bahn reports disruptions and cancellations in South Germany. Two ICE routes are substantially affected, as mentioned by a spokeswoman. There will be no trains between Munich, Bregenz, and Zurich all day on Saturday owing to the floods. The route between Ulm and Augsburg is also disrupted. Deutsche Bahn is regularly updating information regarding track closures, cancellations, and delays on their website.

4:12 Residents in Babenhausen should hang out a white cloth if they need help

The catastrophe situation has extended to the Bavarian district of Unterallgäu. In the town of Babenhausen, a part of the mobile phone network has ceased functioning. Those requiring assistance who are unable to make a call are advised to hang out a white sheet or cloth from their windows, recommends the district administration. Rescue teams, including boats, are currently extricating individuals from their homes in Babenhausen.

4:00 400 THW personnel in action in South Germany

The storms in South Germany are causing the Technical Relief Organization (THW) to mobilize around 400 personnel. The THW in Bonn is responsible for this. They are extracting water, securing dams, and evacuating people. "Due to the persistent and sometimes heavy rainfall, the THW is prepared to deploy additional THW personnel specifically," THW says. In the affected areas, mobile flood gauges will be set up and monitored. The THW further suggests, "Given the current weather forecast and the impending flooding in the next few hours, the THW is prepared to deploy more THW personnel." Each relief group consists of approximately 40 THW personnel who operate three sewage pumps, a power generator, an exploration vehicle, and a command post. These teams can pump up to 30,000 liters of water per minute.

3:47 Map of all current flood warnings

This map illustrates all current flood warnings. The map is regularly updated. https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=176yJTZ-x3Cs60Q8Y81YKG-j95-1ZJ2lqEU-KQm_HX9Yw71lF

3:30 Report: A 26-member mountain climbing group is stuck below the Zugspitze

A group comprising 26 mountaineers faces the challenge of being stranded about hundreds of meters from the peak of Zugspitze. Broadcaster BR highlights the recent snowfall of 60 cm on the Zugspitze, adding to the heavy rain in the valley. With temperatures dropping below zero and a limited visibility of just 100 meters, rescue teams have been dispatched by the Garmisch-Partenkirchen Mountain Rescue Service to locate and assist the climbers amidst the blizzard. It is assumed that the group is exhausted and potentially ill-prepared for the trek. Reasons for their decision to climb Zugspitze during such extreme weather conditions still remain unclear.

14:52 Disaster situation proclaimed in Donau-Ries sector

The Donau-Ries district in Bavaria has mandated a disaster situation. This decision supposedly aims to "aggregate all resources and quicken our preparations for the anticipated water levels." Insights gained from District Administrator Stefan Roßle indicate, "Maintaining composure and staying away from low-lying areas is paramount at present."

14:20 Breach of embankment near Augsburg - Preparations for evacuation

A dike and a dam have been fractured in Augsburg's Swabian district. The district office issued an announcement stating that residents located in specific streets in Diedorf are required to retreat from their homes. An evacuation in Anhausen, a neighborhood of Diedorf, is being organized. "Leaving one's dwelling by moving to higher levels will no longer suffice," says the announcement from the authorities. In Burgwalden and Anhauser Weiher reservoir, a dam and dike have collapsed separately. The district directive encourages residents of the impacted zones to abandon their homes on their own within the next hour. Additionally, officials warn against going near railway underpasses as flooding may occur there. Danger to human life is evident.

Soeder and Herrmann travel to flooded region

Bavaria's State Minister Markus Soeder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann will be setting off to the flooded area of Augsburg's Swabian district on Saturday to scrutinize the flood scenario in Diedorf firsthand. The Interior Ministry made the announcement about their itinerary. District Administrator Martin Sailer also plans to participate in the assessment. The travel plan had to be revised at the last minute due to the circumstances. Soeder and Herrmann had initially intended to check out the spot in Fischach. The present situation necessitates preparations for the evacuation of residents in Diedorf. Flooding is particularly concerning in the Swabian region. After Günzburg, Augsburg and Aichach-Friedberg have both responded by declaring a state of emergency.

The flood situation in Meckenbeuren worsens

The multiple rivers near Meckenbeuren, Bodenseekreis, are experiencing a surging flood. The Schussen river level climbed to 4.72 meters during the afternoon, a spokesperson disclosed. The top expected crest might be approached shortly. Typically, the river accommodates only 45 cm of water. As of Friday evening, around 1300 individuals were cautiously directed to evacuate their homes. Many opted to reside with acquaintances or relatives. Relatively few individuals used shelters. Measures were taken in advance to avoid flooding damages by clearing out schools, kindergartens, and halls. In the 14,000-person municipality, bridges were also shut down to prevent potential harm.

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The live ticker is showing that an international relief effort is being organized for the flooded campsite in Germany. Volunteers from various countries are joining the evacuation efforts at Grav-Island, the largest campsite in Germany that was forced to evacuate due to a flood caused by high river levels.

Despite the flood warning and evacuation orders in Germany, some campers at Grav-Island ignored the warnings and refused to leave, despite the danger posed by the encroaching waters. The situation is particularly critical since the campsite is located near the Danube River, which experienced heavy flooding.

• Rising floods in the southern regions
• Floods: water levels remain critical in many places
• Snow chaos further restricts Bavaria
• Persistent rain causes South's extreme weekend with flooding.