Ratzdorf Braces for Highest Flood Alert

The town of Ratzdorf in the Oder-Spree region is preparing for the highest flood alert level 4. Authorities have erected a 152-meter long and 1-meter high flood protection wall as the peak wave moves downstream. Flood patrols are continuously monitoring the situation, and access to the dikes in Frankfurt (Oder) has been prohibited.

Forecasts predict water levels exceeding six meters, potentially dropping below alert level 4 by Friday. The peak wave is expected to reach Nowa Sol, with a state of emergency declared for water levels above 4.5 meters.

Mayor Beata Kulczycka and local authorities are on high alert, particularly concerned about souvenir hunters, prompting increased police patrols. The State Office for the Environment and other agencies are actively engaged in monitoring and managing the situation, with millions of euros invested in flood protection measures.

As the region braces for the peak, clean-up efforts are already underway in Central and Southeastern Europe.