Southern Germany continues to battle the aftermath of catastrophic flooding, with the Danube River reaching a peak of 10 meters in Passau, causing widespread damage and prompting urgent evacuations. The confirmed death toll has risen to five, and one firefighter is still missing. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, alongside Bavarian Premier Markus Söder and other officials, visited the hard-hit town of Reichertshofen, where over 3,000 people have been evacuated. The Chancellor has assured support for the flood-affected, emphasizing solidarity with the victims. Cleanup efforts have commenced in southwestern Germany, particularly in Rudersberg and Ebersbach an der Fils, where the community is striving to return to normalcy. Despite the easing situation in some regions, the overall flood condition remains critical, with thousands of volunteers and rescue workers deployed to assist in the ongoing crisis. The German Weather Service (DWD) has lifted the flood warning, but advises caution as the search for missing persons continues. The government has pledged financial assistance to those impacted, with estimates of the economic damage exceeding 200 million euros. The recent tragedy has reignited discussions on the need for more robust flood protection measures to mitigate the effects of extreme weather events, which are exacerbated by climate change.
Key points
- The Danube River in Passau reached a peak of 10 meters, prompting widespread evacuations and significant damage.
- Five deaths have been confirmed, with one firefighter missing amidst the flood crisis.
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the affected areas, promising government support and praising the efforts of volunteers.
- Cleanup operations are underway in southwestern Germany as the flood situation begins to ease in some regions.
- Financial assistance will be provided to affected households and businesses, with losses estimated at over 200 million euros.
