The city of Frankfurt has taken drastic measures to combat the rising waters of the Oder River by banning access to dikes. This decision, enforced by Lord Mayor René Wilke, restricts dike access solely to emergency services.
The water level has surged to alarm stage 3, prompting authorities to discourage flood tourism and implement a penalty of 50 euros or more for violations. In the Oder-Spree district, the highest alarm level 4 has been declared, with water levels in Ratzdorf expected to peak at 6.30 meters.
Despite some dike damage and the unfortunate loss of 25 beavers, authorities maintain that the situation is still manageable. Meanwhile, the town of Eisenhüttenstadt is experiencing road inundations, and further flooding is anticipated.
Minister President Dietmar Woidke has visited the affected areas, including Ratzdorf and Eisenhüttenstadt, to assess the situation and oversee relief efforts. The improved flood protection measures are being put to the test as volunteers and emergency services fill sandbags in preparation.
The Elbe River in Northern Germany is also seeing rising levels, expected to peak by the weekend. The 2002 flood caused significant damage in the region, underscoring the necessity for enhanced flood defenses.
As North Germany braces for potential flooding, the coordinated efforts between regions aim to mitigate the impact of the rising water.
