Monday, September 16, 2024 Europe is grappling with severe flooding, fueled by continuous days of relentless rain, which is disrupting rail transportation, prompting large-scale evacuations, and causing extensive damage to homes and infrastructure. Devastation in Poland In southwest Poland, particularly in Glucholazy, the flooding has caused substantial damage. On Sunday, the town experienced the destruction of a temporary bridge and damage to another bridge still under construction as floodwaters surged through the area.
Additionally, a dam collapse in Stronie Slaskie has isolated the town, which has a population of approximately 6,000, from its surrounding regions. In response to the crisis, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has reportedly instructed the finance minister to prepare for emergency aid and has indicated that Poland will seek assistance from European sources. The Prime Minister expressed a commitment to supporting affected individuals, stating that no one would be left to manage the crisis alone.
The Polish defense minister has noted that five police and military helicopters are being utilized to carry out evacuations, highlighting the severity of the situation. Disruptions in Austria Austria has also faced significant disruptions due to the flooding. Rail traffic on a crucial section between Vienna and Salzburg has been suspended due to flood risks, and subway services on at least three lines in Vienna have been affected.
The Weststrecke, a key high-speed rail.