Czech Republic: Severe flooding impacting eastern regions, Sept. 15

Severe flooding is impacting eastern parts of the country as of Sept. 15. Some of the worst-affected locations include Hanusovice, Jesenik, Litovla, Krnov, Opava, Ostrava, and Zlin. A dam on the Opava River is reportedly threatening to burst. Road closures, evacuations, bridge damage, and power outages have been widely reported. Several people are also missing. The flooding comes amid significant rainfall and flooding across much of Central Europe in recent days. Additional rainfall is forecast.

Additional evacuation orders for flood-prone communities are likely over the coming days. Significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds could impact utility networks, further disrupting electricity and telecommunications services.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Localized business disruptions are likely in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.