The catastrophic flooding in southern Germany has intensified, claiming the life of a firefighter during a rescue operation and causing a train derailment near Stuttgart due to a landslide. The German Weather Service (DWD) maintains the highest warning levels as the region braces for further heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Over 1,800 personnel from the Technische Hilfswerk (THW) have been deployed to the hardest-hit areas, including the states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, to secure dams and support evacuation efforts. In Bavaria, at least ten districts have declared a state of emergency, with over 670 residents evacuated from the Neuburg-Schrobenhausen district alone. A total of 600 people have been evacuated in the region, with the Danube, Neckar, and Guenz rivers reaching century-high levels. The Augsburg fairgrounds have been set up as a temporary shelter for those affected by the floods. The DWD warns that the rain will decrease overnight, but the situation remains critical, with many communities declaring a state of emergency. The public is urged to remain vigilant, adhere to evacuation orders, and stay informed as emergency services, including the Bundeswehr, continue to respond to the unfolding crisis.
Key points
- A firefighter died during a rescue operation amid catastrophic flooding in southern Germany.
- A train derailment occurred near Stuttgart due to a landslide, with all 185 passengers evacuated safely.
- Over 1,800 THW personnel are assisting with evacuations and securing dams in the affected regions.
- The DWD has issued the highest flood warnings, with more rain expected to exacerbate the already critical situation.
