Report on the Flood in Passau
Report on the Flood in Passau
In a dramatic development, the city of Passau has declared a state of emergency after the water levels of the Danube and its tributaries have risen to a critical level. The ongoing heavy rain in the region has led to water levels rising at an alarming pace, forcing authorities to take urgent measures to ensure the safety of residents and minimize property damage.
According to the flood protection office, water levels on the Danube and its tributaries have rapidly increased in the last 24 hours. In the early morning of Tuesday, June 4, 24, an alarming water level of 8.50 meters was measured in Passau. Forecasts indicate that the peak water level has not yet been reached, heightening concerns of potential severe flooding in the region.
Mayor of Passau, Jürgen Dupper, emphasized in a press conference that the safety of the citizens is the top priority. At the same time, he called for calm and discipline among the population to avoid unnecessary panic. He urged residents to strictly follow the instructions of rescue teams and authorities and, if possible, to move to higher ground. "We are deploying all available forces to bring the situation under control," said Dupper.
The alert phase began on Sunday evening, when the first warnings were issued by the German Weather Service (DWD) and the flood warning center. Since then, countless emergency forces from the fire department, the Technical Relief Agency (THW), and volunteers have been in constant use.Operations leader Thomas Kurz explained that barricades and sandbags have been set up along particularly vulnerable areas to prevent widespread flooding of the city. "The cooperation between the various relief organizations is running smoothly. Our goal is to react quickly and effectively to protect human lives and limit damage as much as possible," Kurz stated.
The area of the old town is particularly affected, where numerous historic buildings and residential houses are located by the water. Many residents have already evacuated their homes. In makeshift accommodations set up by the city administration, they find shelter and supplies. Schools, daycare centers, and public facilities will remain closed initially to not hinder evacuation activities.
Furthermore, traffic is heavily affected. Some main roads are already closed, and public transportation is running on a limited basis. The German Railway has announced that train services in and around Passau are suspended until further notice. Travelers are advised to inquire about alternative routes in a timely manner.
To ensure safe protection and a long-term solution, the Free State of Bavaria has pledged additional financial resources and support.Minister President Markus Söder promised in a statement that the state government will do everything in its power to help those affected. "We will provide uncomplicated immediate assistance and provide the necessary resources to assist the severely affected region," said Söder.
In addition to the efforts of local and regional authorities, the population has shown solidarity in an unprecedented way. Numerous volunteers offer their help, neighborhood initiatives organize material donations and support for older and mobility-impaired people. "It is impressive to see how the community sticks together in these difficult times," said a spokesperson for the Red Cross.
Hydrologists and climate researchers warn that such extreme weather events could occur more frequently in the future. The German Weather Service emphasizes that climate change increases the frequency and intensity of flooding events. "We need to strengthen preventive measures and invest in sustainable infrastructure to be better prepared for such natural disasters," a spokesperson for the DWD demanded.
The situation in Passau will continue to be monitored critically in the coming days. Weather forecasts indicate an improvement in conditions, but it remains to be seen how the water levels will develop. Authorities and rescue teams remain on high alert to be able to respond quickly to any changes.
Anita Faake, Tuesday, June 4, 24
