Severe Storms Devastate Central and Eastern Europe: At Least 18 Dead and Thousands Displaced
Severe storms, dubbed Storm Boris, have wreaked havoc across Central and Eastern Europe, leading to widespread flooding, power outages, and evacuations in countries including the Czech Republic, Austria, Poland, and Romania. At least 18 fatalities have been reported, with numbers expected to rise as rescue operations continue and assessments of the damage are conducted.
In the Czech Republic, the government has mobilized up to 2,000 soldiers to assist civil authorities in the wake of severe flooding. Defense Minister Jana Cernochova announced that army helicopters will deliver essential supplies, including drinking water and food, to the hardest-hit regions. The police have confirmed at least one drowning victim, while seven individuals remain missing.
In Austria, the situation is critical, particularly in Lower Austria, where continuous rainfall has led to the declaration of a disaster area. Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner reported that three fatalities have been confirmed, including a firefighter who died while responding to the floods. The Vienna River has risen dramatically, prompting evacuations and disruptions to public transport, including partial closures of metro lines.
Romania has also been severely affected, with six confirmed deaths and thousands of homes damaged in the Carpathian region. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has called for donations to assist affected families and has emphasized the need for cleanup efforts as the water recedes, revealing extensive mud and debris.
In Poland, the flood situation remains dire, with four confirmed deaths and significant damage reported in towns like Klodzko and Glucholazy. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced an emergency aid package of 1 billion zlotys (around €240 million) to support flood victims and reconstruction efforts. Local authorities have ordered evacuations in areas at risk of further flooding due to dam breaches.
As the floods continue to impact the region, leaders are urging residents to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders. The situation remains fluid, with additional rainfall forecasted, raising concerns about further flooding and potential landslides.
