Torrential rains trigger deadly flash flooding in eastern Czech Republic

At least one person died while dozens were rescued as flash flooding hit Czech Republic's eastern region due to overnight torrential rains into June 8, 2020. The Oskava river has hit 3.3 m (10.8 feet), almost reaching the extreme danger level of 3.4 m (11.2 feet).

On Sunday evening, June 7, fire services in the Olomouc region evacuated dozens of residents in several villages, including Sumvald, Dolni Sukolom, Brevenec, and Oskava.

Regional firefighter spokeswoman Lucie Balazova said firefighters rescued trapped individuals from flooded buildings, cars, and directly from the water.

Local media said up to 1 m (3 feet) of floodwater inundated some areas. Images posted by the police and fire departments showed extensive damage as streets were covered in mud and debris.

Several vehicles were upturned, forcing the temporary closure of roads were temporarily closed. The raging floods also destroyed at least one bridge.

The police confirmed that a 48-year-old woman died in Brevenec, but no further details were given. Another woman aged 74 went missing in Oskava after being swept away by flood from a stream.

According to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMU), Oskava recorded 85 mm (3 inches) of rain in 24 hours, and the Oskava river increased from 1.3 to 3.3 m (4.3 to 10.8 feet) on June 8, surpassing the danger level of 3 m (9.8 feet) and almost hitting the extreme danger level of 3.4 m (11.2 feet).

Featured image credit: Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic