Central Europe is facing a significant flood crisis as record rains since last Thursday have led to swollen rivers affecting multiple countries. Poland, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Romania are among the hardest hit, with Poland experiencing some of the most severe impacts.
In southwestern Poland, near the city of Wroclaw, soldiers and volunteers have been actively laying sandbags to protect homes and businesses from the rising waters. The situation remains dire as floodwaters are expected to crest throughout the day, potentially persisting for days.
Authorities across the region have reported 23 fatalities, including seven in Poland and Romania, five in Austria, and four in the Czech Republic. The recent floods, alongside deadly wildfires in Portugal, highlight what the European Union considers a "climate breakdown" that requires urgent and drastic action to prevent further environmental disasters.
Despite improving weather conditions, with warm and sunny skies bringing some relief, many areas are still grappling with high water levels. In Poland, firefighters are working tirelessly to pump water from flooded streets and basements, while in Romania, around 1,000 firefighters are engaged in cleanup operations. However, the threat of further flooding looms, particularly in southwestern Poland.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk has convened crisis meetings in Wroclaw, urging local officials and rescue services to implement protective measures and assuring support for those affected. The Polish army is heavily involved in evacuation efforts, relocating people and animals from the most affected areas and providing essential supplies. Additionally, a field hospital has been established in Nysa to handle medical emergencies resulting from the floods.
Community leaders, such as Artur Piotrowski of Olawa, have described the situation as challenging, with some residents refusing to evacuate despite the risks. In Stronie Slaskie, residents have called on the Prime Minister to oversee cleanup and recovery efforts, citing chaos and inefficiency in the current response.
Experts remain vigilant about potential flood threats from the Oder River in Opole and Wroclaw, a city with a history of devastating floods in 1997. As the region continues to recover, the focus remains on preventing further damage and addressing the broader implications of climate change.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
