Torrential rain and flooding have caused at least 16 deaths in central and eastern Europe, with many more missing. Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic are among the hardest-hit countries, with widespread evacuations taking place. The flooding has been described as the worst in the region in over two decades, with homes submerged, dams bursting, and whole neighborhoods underwater.
Authorities in Poland have declared a state of emergency in flooded areas and allocated funds for emergency aid. Other affected countries, such as Hungary and Romania, are also grappling with the devastating impact of the floods. The extreme rainfall is attributed to human-caused climate breakdown, with warmer air holding more water vapor and leading to more intense storms.
Thousands of people have been evacuated, infrastructure has been destroyed, and residents in affected areas are facing dramatic and difficult situations. The Czech prime minister has urged people to follow emergency instructions, while the Austrian chancellor has declared certain regions as disaster areas.
As the floodwaters continue to rise, the situation remains critical, with more dams at risk of breaking and concerns about further damage. The need for financial assistance and support from the EU is also being emphasized. The impact of the flooding is widespread, with cities like Budapest and Bratislava preparing for severe flooding as rivers continue to rise. Residents are being urged to stay safe and aware of the evolving situation.
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