Current weather conditions - Potential for historic flooding in the eastern region of the country
Floods could soon hit areas that have not experienced such disasters in over a century, warn experts at Germany's Flood Forecasting Centre (HVZ) in Baden-Württemberg's capital Karlsruhe. They predict the Oberschwaben region might witness a massive flood, considering the current climate conditions. This news comes from the State Environment Agency, correlating with the German Weather Service (DWD)'s prediction of heavy rainfall across the eastern state. A low-pressure system will continue to supply rainfall, mapping out the scenario for disaster.
The HVZ predictions assert that the tributaries of the Donau and Bodensee in the Oberschwaben area could see significant floods from Friday to Saturday noon. In addition, rivers like Erms, Fils, Rems, and Kocher might also soon witness a 50-100 year flooding. By Saturday to Sunday, floods of the same magnitude could potentially form at the Neckar gauges Gundelsheim and Heidelberg. Furthermore, minor floods in the Upper and Upper Rhine regions are predicted.
To counter this impending danger, communities are already taking preventive measures. Mannheim city authorities anticipate a water level of approximately 7.50 meters over the weekend, way above the 4.60 meters measured on Friday. Consequently, river access in the capital will be shut down. Heidelberg city officials anticipate a Neckar water level between 4.50 and 5 meters. Meanwhile, detours are being set up and sandbags distributed to residents.
The DWD has issued operational warnings for eastern Baden-Württembergians, urging caution until Monday night. Estimates pinpoint a rainfall of around 50 to 100 liters per square meter in Heidenheim. On Sunday, meteorologists from the DWD caution that thunderstorms could be on the horizon.
HVZ situation report, 11:45 amDWD warning report for Baden-Württemberg, 11:08 amDWD warning map.
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The potential flood in the Oberschwaben region has prompted concerns in Stuttgart, as well, given the proximity to the affected areas. The Flood Forecasting Center in Stuttgart is closely monitoring the situation. Despite being located in Upper Swabia, Heidelberg is also under the watchful eye of the flood experts, with predictions of significant flooding at the Neckar gauges. The Karlsruhe-based Flood Forecasting Center is collaborating with weather services in Karlsruhe and other cities in Baden-Württemberg, including Heidelberg, to accurately forecast and manage the Flood of the century. The relentless rain and storms in these regions have created an environment conducive to such unprecedented flooding events.
