Central and Eastern Europe is grappling with the aftermath of Storm Boris, which has tragically claimed at least 15 lives and left thousands homeless. The storm, which began unleashing relentless rain on Friday, has resulted in severe flooding across several countries including Romania, Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The devastation caused by this extreme weather event is still being assessed, as communities struggle to cope with the destruction and loss.
The Impact of Storm Boris on Central and Eastern Europe
The torrential rains associated with Storm Boris have led to swollen rivers and overflowing watercourses, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. In Romania, six fatalities have been reported, with the province of Galati being the hardest hit. Emergency services are overwhelmed as they respond to the needs of approximately 6,000 affected families. Many residents have been rescued from rooftops and cars, highlighting the urgency of the situation. In Poland, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced immediate aid of 1 billion zlotys (approximately 235 million euros) to assist the disaster-stricken regions. Meanwhile, in Austria, the governor of Lower Austria described the situation as "dramatic," with multiple dikes breached and communities cut off from assistance.
A Call for Aid and Recovery
As the floodwaters begin to recede in some areas, the damage is becoming more visible. In towns like Klodzko and Krnov, streets are littered with debris, and essential infrastructure has been severely compromised. Local authorities are calling for donations and support to aid in recovery efforts, particularly for children who have been displaced. Experts warn that such flooding events may become more common due to climate change, with increased rainfall expected in Central and Western Europe as global temperatures rise. The situation remains critical, and officials continue to urge residents to exercise caution as further rain is forecasted.
