Photo: from open sources
The death toll from floods in Central Europe continues to rise, with governments in Poland, the Czech Republic, and other countries calculating the growing costs of the extreme weather. Storm “Boris,” which brought torrential rain to the region, poses ongoing threats. Six people have been confirmed dead in Romania due to flash floods, with hundreds evacuated.This is reported by Bloomberg
Poland and Czech Republic Declare a State of Emergency
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that the government has allocated 1 billion zlotys ($260 million) to aid flood-stricken regions. In the Czech Republic, the government is expected to revise its 2024 budget due to flood-related damages. Finance Minister Zbynek Stanjura warned that the current situation could be comparable to the major floods that hit the country in 1997 and 2002.
Insurance Companies Suffer Significant Losses
Poland’s largest insurer, PZU, reported a sharp increase in weather-related claims, with over 3,000 submitted in the past two days—nearly nine times the usual amount. Claims from the floods are expected to reduce PZU’s profits by 10%, while the company’s shares have already fallen by 4.4%. Similar challenges are faced by insurers Uniqa and Vienna Insurance Group.
Photo: 33kanal
Massive Evacuations in the Czech Republic
In the Czech Republic, over 12,000 people have been evacuated, with more than 100,000 households without electricity. One person has been confirmed dead, and seven remain missing. Political leaders are considering postponing the upcoming Senate elections due to the crisis.
Hungary Braces for the Worst Flood in Over a Decade
Hungary is preparing for the worst flood in over a decade, with the highest alert level issued in Budapest. More than a million sandbags will be placed along the Danube River, and thousands of volunteers are expected to join 17,000 soldiers in flood defense efforts.
Photo: Russian media
Climate Change Fuels the Increase in Extreme Weather Events
German Economy Minister Robert Habeck highlighted that the increasing frequency of floods is directly linked to global warming. He emphasized the need to transition to renewable energy sources and prepare for more extreme weather conditions in the future.
Different Countries Battle the Flood Crisis
In Austria and Germany, water levels continue to rise, while in Romania, a state of emergency has been declared in two flood-hit regions. In Poland, critical infrastructure has been submerged, and businesses in the Czech Republic are being shut down and evacuated. Hungary and Serbia are bracing for more flood threats.
