Germany: Rising waters in the main river through the German city of Dresden reached seven metres yesterday, forcing a first batch of evacuations while authorities said at least 1,000 more people might have to be moved out over the weekend.
Around 100 residents of the Maillebahn retirement home were moved as melted snow and rain swelled the Elbe river and caused flooding in parts of the city. Experts say the historic city centre will be safe as long as levels stay below nine metres.
In the nearby town of Rathen, residents piled sand bags high to prevent water flooding into shops and homes.
In August 2002, levels in the Elbe reached 9.4 metres, causing widespread flooding and triggering what then chancellor Gerhard Schröder described as the biggest German emergency operation since the war.
- (Reuters)