Central Europe is grappling with the worst flooding in over two decades, prompting mass evacuations and a rising death toll. The border regions between the Czech Republic and Poland have been hit hardest, with heavy rains causing rivers to overflow, damaging infrastructure and property.
At least 17 people have died from the flooding, which has impacted areas from Romania to Poland. In southern Poland, the mayor of Nysa urged immediate evacuations after a floodbank was breached. In the Czech city of Ostrava, flooding caused by a broken barrier affected industrial areas, including chemical and coking plants, leading to more evacuations.
In Litovel, Czech Republic, floodwaters submerged 70% of the town, causing widespread panic among residents. The Polish government has declared a state of natural disaster and allocated 1 billion zlotys ($260 million) for relief efforts. Prime Minister Donald Tusk is coordinating with other affected countries and seeking EU financial aid.
The destruction is described as apocalyptic by locals, with entire towns cut off due to the loss of bridges. Cleanup efforts have begun in areas like Jesenik, Czech Republic, where streets are littered with debris and damaged vehicles.
Flooding has also affected eastern Romania, where villages have been submerged, leaving some residents with only their clothes. In Austria, the situation remains critical with rivers and reservoirs at high levels, and up to 12,000 soldiers on standby in Hungary as they prepare for potential flooding.
The impact of the floods continues to evolve, with many areas still on alert as more heavy rain is anticipated.