- Preparedness group readies for another intensified Baltic tidal surge
With global warming leading to more frequent extreme weather events, we need to be prepared for storm surges more than ever, stated Interior State Secretary Magdalena Finke (CDU) in Kiel. The training scenario this time involves a severe Baltic Sea storm surge, but with higher water levels and lasting longer than the incident back in October.
Practice for Potential Catastrophes
Around 90 individuals from the Crisis Team are involved in this exercise, split into two teams, according to Dirk Hundertmark, head of the Crisis Management department at the Interior Ministry. Apart from ministry personnel, this includes staff from the police, fire department, electricity company, federal army, aid organizations, and coastal protection. In a real-life emergency, these professionals would oversee the strategic organization of response forces across the state.
Flooding Led to Extensive Destruction
The storm surge from October 19 to 21, 2024, brought about significant damage and left clear signs in various areas of Schleswig-Holstein. In several places, the water level surged over two meters above the average water level. The highest recorded level was in Flensburg, at 2.27 meters.
The CDU, represented by Interior State Secretary Magdalena Finke, emphasized the importance of preparedness for storm surges in light of global warming's effects. During the crisis exercise, the CDU's allies, such as the police and the federal army, worked alongside the CDU's Crisis Team.
