Ulm THW Achieves 30,000 Sandbag Target at 03:13 Amid Flooding Crisis

In a massive response to the severe flooding across southern Germany, particularly in Baden-Würtzburg and Bavaria, emergency services including the Technical Relief Organization (THW) in Ulm have been actively engaged in flood mitigation efforts. The THW successfully filled 30,000 sandbags overnight to support flood defenses in the affected regions, managing to fill 400 sandbags every hour. The persistent heavy rainfall in these areas has led to a significant increase in water levels, prompting emergency responses from various organizations, including the Red Cross in Bavaria, which dispatched a water rescue team to the heavily affected district of Günzburg.
In addition to flooding, landslides have caused disruptions, with two ICE wagons derailing in Schwäbisch Gmünd, though no injuries were reported. Neu-Ulm narrowly avoided a 100-year flood event as flood peaks passed, with local authorities beginning to assess the damage. The Munich Fire Department has warned residents of the dangers posed by high waters along the Isar River, leading to the closure of popular walking paths.
Several districts have declared disasters due to the overflowing rivers and the subsequent flooding, with the Dillingen district calling for Bundeswehr assistance in anticipation of a 100-year flood on the Zusam river. Emergency evacuations and rescue operations are ongoing, including the evacuation of the Memmingen prison and rescue operations for stranded individuals across the affected regions.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Munich Airport continues to operate normally, showcasing the resilience of some infrastructure against the adverse conditions. Bavarian Minister President Markus Soder has been actively involved, visiting affected areas and emphasizing the critical role of emergency services in managing the crisis.
The German Weather Service (DWD) has indicated that the heavy rain is starting to lessen, though incoming showers and thunderstorms could still pose a risk of further flooding. Authorities continue to urge residents in affected areas to heed warnings and follow instructions to ensure their safety.