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Poland is facing some of the worst flooding in years. Since mid-September, heavy rainfall has led to numerous floods, and rivers are exceeding their danger levels, flooding homes, roads, and bridges. The worst-affected regions are the southwestern provinces of Lower Silesia and Opole, where the storms hit with unprecedented force, reminiscent of the dramatic events of the flood in 1997.
Dramatic situation
Klodzko was at the center of the cataclysm: A great flood inundated much of the city, broke the dikes, and forced residents to evacuate. There is a shortage of drinking water in the city, as the water supply has been contaminated. Part of the city is without electricity.
The situation is no better in nearby Glucholazy, where water overflowed the embankments and one of the bridges was completely destroyed by the onslaught of water. Emergency rescue services continue to fight, but the scale of the damage is growing by the hour. Several cities and towns in the region have been evacuated.
The floods are also affecting the neighboring countries of Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary, and Romania. Reuters reports at least 23 deaths so far.
According to CNA, in Austria, "the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz in the Vienna Woods, one of the world’s oldest continuously occupied Cistercian monasteries, was severely affected earlier this week."
Caritas' immediate assistance
In response to the tragedy, Caritas Poland has mobilized aid for those affected, donating the equivalent of over $100,000 US dollars (400,000 zlotys) to support the worst-affected areas.
How can we help?
Caritas and local governmental and non-governmental organizations are accepting donations from those able to offer donations of money or in kind. However, all people of good will are invited to pray for the flood victims.
Let us ask God that the precipitation stops and the water begins to recede, giving hope for the reconstruction of damaged homes and towns. We pray for strength and perseverance for the rescue workers who are sacrificially risking their lives to save others. May God watch over them, giving them health and endurance in these difficult times.
Let us pray together for those suffering from this tragedy, asking for all those affected protection from further destruction and the strength to rebuild.
