The death toll from severe flooding across central Europe has climbed to eight, as continuous heavy rainfall led to extensive evacuations, especially in the Czech Republic, where thousands were forced to leave their homes. The floods, caused by a low-pressure system named Boris, have affected areas from Austria to Romania, with the Czech Republic and Poland experiencing some of the most severe impacts in nearly 30 years.
Rivers overflowed after days of torrential downpours, washing away bridges and disrupting power to over 250,000 households, predominantly in the Czech Republic. While the rains briefly subsided in Romania, the forecast predicts more rain and strong winds until at least Monday.
On Sunday, a tragic incident in southwestern Poland resulted in a drowning, and in Austria, a firefighter lost his life during rescue operations. Romania reported six fatalities over the weekend due to the floods. Authorities in Lower Austria have declared a disaster zone and advised against non-essential travel.
Infrastructure damage was widespread, with bridge collapses reported in Glucholazy and Stronie Slaskie, Poland, where a dam also burst. In response to the escalating crisis, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans to declare a state of disaster and seek aid from the European Union.
In the Czech Republic, police are searching for three individuals missing after their car plunged into the river Staric near Lipova-Lazne. The region has recorded up to 500 mm (19.7 inches) of rainfall since Wednesday. Affected residents in Lipova-Lazne and the neighbouring Jesenik reported significant damage to properties and disrupted communication networks.
The emergency services have been actively rescuing people, using helicopters in the Lipova-Lazne district. Over 10,000 individuals have been evacuated across the Czech Republic. Meanwhile, in Budapest, forecasts indicate the Danube might reach levels close to the record high experienced in 2013.
As conditions begin to improve in Romania, efforts are underway to restore electricity and commence clean-up operations, although many residents, like Victoria Salceanu from the village of Slobozia Conachi, face the heartbreaking reality of significant losses.
