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.