The recent torrential rains across the Rhine and southern Germany have led to a severe flood situation, affecting regions such as Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Tragically, at least five people have lost their lives due to the floods, including a 52-year-old woman trapped in her car and several individuals found dead in their basements. The floods have mobilized more than 60,000 rescuers in Bavaria, with over 6,000 people evacuated from affected areas.
In one of the most dramatic rescue operations, a 32-year-old woman was saved after spending 52 hours perched in a tree to escape the rising floodwaters near Neu-Ulm, Bavaria. The town of Passau, known as “the city of three rivers” due to its location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, declared a state of emergency as water levels reached a critical 10 meters.
The state government of Bavaria has pledged “at least 100 million” euros in aid to support the flood victims, while FC Bayern, the famous Bavarian football club, has also announced a donation of one million euros. The president of FC Bayern, Herbert Hainer, emphasized the need for solidarity during this exceptional situation.
The flood situation remains dynamic and precarious, with the German Weather Service (DWD) issuing warnings of continuing heavy rain and thunderstorms in the region. In places like Schrobenhausen in Upper Bavaria, rescue workers have discovered more casualties, including a missing 43-year-old woman found in a basement. A firefighter also lost his life after capsizing during a rescue operation.
The city of Regensburg declared a disaster, with water levels reaching 5.80 meters at the Iron Bridge, indicating severe danger to residents' livelihoods and health. Additionally, the flood control center anticipates peak flood levels similar to those experienced in 2002. Emergency shelters have been set up in affected areas such as Heißesheim and Auchsesheim, with local authorities urging residents to evacuate immediately due to the risk of dam failures.
- The severe weather has led to widespread closures of schools and daycare centers, especially in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. Nursing homes in affected areas, such as the Rems Murr district, have also been evacuated to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations.
- Despite the grim situation, the coordination and efficiency of rescue operations have been commendable, with drones being used to locate and rescue stranded individuals. Local authorities and aid organizations continue to work tirelessly to provide food, shelter, and medical assistance to those impacted by the floods.
