Flooding in Bavaria can move fast and hit towns along the Danube, Inn, and Isar. If you’re in or near affected areas, this guide gives clear, practical steps: how to stay safe, protect property, and support recovery. No jargon — just useful actions you can take right away.
Are you in danger now? Call 112. Follow orders from local authorities and evacuate when told. Don’t wait for water to reach your door.
If you must move through water, remember: six inches of moving water can knock you down, a foot can sweep a car away. Avoid driving through flooded roads. If water is rising inside your home, go to higher floors and bring ID, medicines, and your phone.
Turn off gas, electricity, and main water only if you can do so safely. Photograph damage from a dry spot for insurance claims — clear pictures help speed up payouts later. Keep receipts for any emergency purchases or repairs.
Prepare a small emergency bag: charged phone or power bank, bottled water, basic first-aid kit, flashlight, warm clothes, and any essential documents in a waterproof folder or sealed bag. If you have pets, pack their food and carrier.
After waters subside, don’t re-enter buildings until authorities say it’s safe. Floodwater can contain sewage, chemicals, and hidden electrical hazards. Wear sturdy boots and gloves when inspecting property. Ventilate buildings to reduce mold risk and take photos before cleanup starts.
Expect travel disruptions: road closures, damaged bridges, and delayed trains. Check local transport providers and the Bavarian State Police (Bayerische Polizei) for live updates. Major regional news outlet BR24 and municipal websites often post frequent, local alerts.
Contact your insurance company early. Note the policy number, describe damage clearly, and ask about temporary housing coverage. If you don’t have insurance, local relief agencies may offer short-term help.
Want to help but not sure how? Don’t just show up with items — coordinated donations are more useful. Cash donations to trusted local groups are usually the fastest, most flexible support.
Useful contacts: emergency number 112; Deutsches Rotes Kreuz and Bayerisches Rotes Kreuz for local relief; Technisches Hilfswerk (THW) for rescue and infrastructure support. Look for official municipal hotlines for evacuation centers and shelter details.
Check for updates from local authorities, regional news, and trusted NGOs before making decisions. If you’re traveling to Bavaria, reconsider plans until travel advisories clear. If you have friends or family in affected zones, call or message rather than assuming social posts tell the full story.
Flood recovery takes time. Small actions — documenting damage, keeping receipts, donating money to vetted groups, and following official guidance — make a real difference for people on the ground.
Four people have died in severe floods sweeping across southern Germany. Heavy rainfall has caused widespread havoc in Bavaria and Baden-Wuerttemberg, submerging cellars and disrupting transportation. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has called for urgent climate action as the crisis deepens.
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