Severe Weather Unleashes Chaos and Flooding Concerns in Germany

Severe weather wreaks havoc across South Germany, prompting flood warnings and preparations
A severe weather system has caused chaos across South Germany, particularly in towns bordering rivers in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, with experts predicting a once-in-a-century flooding event. In Meckenbeuren, Baden-Württemberg, approximately 1,300 residents were advised to evacuate due to expected heavy flooding on the River Schussen. Flood-related advisories were issued in other areas, urging residents to avoid basements and consider temporary relocation.
Weingarten residents received similar guidance, with the local fire department highlighting the unpredictability of rising water levels and the potential for evacuations. Lindau am Bodensee faced street and underpass flooding, leading to a temporary city bus service suspension and evacuations in affected buildings.
The German Weather Service has issued the highest alert level in several regions, recording up to 128 liters of rain per square meter in 24 hours. The Danube and its tributaries are also at risk, with the Zusam river in the Augsburg district already overflowing, prompting the declaration of a disaster area to facilitate emergency response.
Residents in vulnerable areas, including in the Biberach district, have been advised to prepare emergency kits and install the NINA warning app for evacuation alerts. The Rhine and Neckar rivers in Hesse are expected to face significant flooding, while Eastern Germany is braced for heavy rain and thunderstorms, though less severe than initially feared.