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Central Europe Prepares for Worst Flooding in Years Amid Warnings of ‘Catastrophic’ Rainfall
Several Central European countries are bracing for what could be the most severe flooding in years, as forecasters predict days of relentless rainfall. Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland have begun taking emergency measures, including preparing sandbags, emptying reservoirs, and warning of flash floods in vulnerable regions.
In Poland, Prime Minister Donald Tusk reassured citizens after a flood risk briefing in Wroclaw, stating there is “no reason to panic.” However, forecasts predict up to 15cm (6 inches) of rain in four southern provinces. Austria, already seeing disruption from heavy rain and snowfall in the mountains, is preparing for more. Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced that up to 1,000 soldiers are ready to be deployed to aid flood response efforts.
The Czech Republic, particularly its capital, Prague, is not taking any risks after the devastation caused by floods two decades ago. Czech authorities are also managing the Vltava Cascade, a system of nine dams, to handle incoming floodwaters. They had to reject a request from Germany to stop releasing water into the River Elbe after a bridge collapsed in Dresden, emphasizing the need to keep reservoirs half-empty to manage the expected deluge.
Austrian meteorological experts have warned that rainfall could exceed September records in just a few days. Parts of the Austrian railway network, including the Tauern railway line, have been closed due to snowfall, and passengers are being advised to avoid non-essential travel. Aid organizations like Caritas are calling for volunteers to assist in the hardest-hit areas.
Heavy rainfall is also expected to impact the neighboring German state of Bavaria, adding to the regional scale of the crisis. As officials continue monitoring the situation, the focus remains on preventing widespread damage and ensuring the safety of those in affected areas.
News
Over 60 Injured in Drone Strike on Northern Israel
More than 60 people have been injured following a drone strike in northern Israel’s Binyamina region, according to emergency response organization United Hatzalah. The attack, claimed by Hezbollah, targeted a training camp of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) Golani Brigade, located between Tel Aviv and Haifa.
The victims, whose conditions range from critical to mild, were evacuated to five regional hospitals via ambulances and helicopters. Israeli media reported that 67 people were injured in total, with four in critical condition and five others seriously wounded.
Hezbollah’s media office said the strike was in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon and Beirut earlier this week. The group used a “swarm of drones” in the attack, and reports suggest the low-level drones launched from Lebanon did not trigger Israel’s early warning alarms.
Footage showed wounded individuals being rushed into emergency vehicles, including helicopters, as medical teams worked swiftly to provide care. The injured were taken to hospitals in Hadera, Tel Hashomer, Haifa, Afula, and Netanya, where medical teams are working to stabilize those in critical condition.
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Officials Urge Caution in Aftermath of Hurricane Milton: ‘Don’t Go Sightseeing’
Although Hurricane Milton has passed, officials are warning residents across Florida to remain cautious as the storm’s lingering effects, including severe flooding, continue to pose risks. In Hillsborough County, where Tampa is located, rescue teams have been hard at work after the river overflowed, causing over 6 feet (1.8 meters) of flooding. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, traveling by boat, has been ensuring the safety of residents in the flood-affected areas.
While multiple Florida ports have reopened, including Key West, Port Everglades, and Miami, several remain closed, such as those in St. Petersburg, Fort Myers, and Jacksonville. Georgia and South Carolina have also seen some port reopenings, but many areas still face closures and flooding risks.
President Biden provided an update on the storm’s damage, estimating the total cost to be around $50 billion. He emphasized that more financial aid would be necessary and called on Congress to approve additional funds as the true extent of the damage is assessed.
Officials are also urging people to stay off the roads and avoid “sightseeing” in affected areas to prevent further accidents or fatalities. “We’re going to need a lot of help,” Biden said, stressing the long recovery ahead after Milton and Hurricane Helene, which struck the region just weeks earlier.
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Florida Reels as Hurricane Milton Leaves Six Dead and Destruction in its Wake
At least six people have died after Hurricane Milton tore through Florida, leaving behind a trail of destruction. As emergency responders navigate floodwaters and clear debris from fallen trees and power lines, the full extent of the storm’s toll remains unclear.
In St. Lucie County, four people lost their lives after multiple tornadoes struck the region. In central Florida’s St. Petersburg, police chief Anthony Halloway confirmed two more deaths.
President Joe Biden addressed the nation, acknowledging the uncertain scope of the damage and the dangers that remain. He emphasized that while the storm has passed, the aftermath can often bring additional fatalities. “There’s still very dangerous conditions in the state,” Biden warned.
He also stressed the need for substantial financial aid to support the state’s recovery. Biden called on Congress, currently in recess, to return and address the urgent emergency funding needs, underscoring that Florida’s recovery will be a “long haul” requiring billions of dollars in aid.
The president assured that immediate relief efforts are underway, ensuring that residents affected by the storm receive the support they need.
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