The worst floods in Central Europe in at least twenty years have caused extensive damage over the past two weeks across many river valleys, from Romania to Poland. At least 24 people have died, bridges have been destroyed, and villages and towns along riverbanks are covered with a thick layer of mud and debris.
The floodwaters have caused enormous devastation along many rivers: mountains of debris, silt weighing several tons, and loss of property. Nearly half of the residents in remote villages remain cut off from running water and electricity. Recovery is virtually impossible without military assistance.
The losses affect not only fields and farmland but also already harvested products. Rivers flooded many warehouses, silos, and farm buildings where Polish farmers stored their grain. Some arable fields were completely destroyed and will be impossible to reseed in the coming months.
Repair and cleanup work will take the people in the region many months, if not years. Some railway lines in the eastern Glatz Mountains region have been destroyed. Train connections that are not possible are being replaced by buses.
Strict inspections of food and animal feed safety will take place in flood-affected areas. “Grains, animal feed (…) and other agricultural products that have been flooded are unsuitable for human consumption and animal feeding,” according to a statement from the Polish ministry. Additionally, no drinking water should be drawn from wells, and all food that has come into contact with river water must be discarded regardless of packaging.