Saarland, Germany, battered by worst floods in 30 years, state of emergency declared
Heavy rains have hit western Germany. Floodwaters have inundated the streets of many cities, necessitating thousands of interventions by the fire brigade. In Saarland, authorities have declared a state of emergency due to the natural disaster.
A dangerous situation has unfolded in western Germany. Heavy rains have led to flooded streets and landslides in some areas. In the state of Saarland, nearly 1,250 litres of water per square metre fell in less than a day.
In this region alone, firefighters and police have intervened more than 3,000 times. Several locations had to be evacuated, including a hotel in Neunkirchen and a nursing home in Marpingen.
A state of emergency due to a natural disaster has been declared in Saarbrücken. Currently, there is no information regarding casualties from the heavy rains.
The most difficult situation in 30 years
Due to the floods, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz suspended his meeting with residents of Saarland related to the European Parliament campaign. Instead, he met with local authorities to assess the situation.
The Chancellor stated in Kleinblittersdorf that the immediate focus should be on emergency aid. After the direct crisis and threat have subsided, collaborative efforts will be made to determine what needs to be done to help those affected. "We have a good practice of solidarity," said Scholz, as quoted by the dpa agency.
"Unfortunately, this is not the first time we are dealing with a serious natural disaster, so of course, we will look into what needs to be done and what is necessary," Scholz emphasised. "Everyone can be assured that it will be done in the best possible way," he added.
Saarland Premier Anke Rehlinger described the current situation as the most challenging since the flood in Saarland over 30 years ago, known as the 'flood of the century.'
The heavy rains and subsequent floods have also affected other countries in the region, including Belgium and the Netherlands. In northeastern France, a flood alert was issued due to rising river levels.
