At least 8 dead as flooding ravages Central Europe

At least eight people have died and thousands have been evacuated following torrential rainfall across central and eastern Europe. 

A slow-moving low-pressure system, named Storm Boris, dumped months' worth of rain on several European countries, leading to widespread flooding and severe disruption. Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Slovakia were among the hardest-hit regions.

Authorities issued red alerts in several countries, including Germany and Poland, as heavy rainfall persisted into Monday. 

In Poland's Klodzko County, one person drowned, and thousands were evacuated after local rivers burst their banks. Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed the death on Sunday, stating that "the situation is still very dramatic in many places." Tusk also indicated that Poland would declare a state of disaster and seek assistance from the European Union.

Austria also experienced significant flooding. In Lower Austria, a firefighter died while responding to rescue operations. In response, authorities declared the area a disaster zone. Many municipalities across the region have declared a state of emergency as rain continues to swell rivers and flood towns.

The Czech Republic is grappling with some of the worst flooding seen in decades. Czech President Petr Pavel warned that the flooding was far from over, noting that the country's poorest regions could face severe damage. 

More than 10,000 people have been evacuated, and nearly 80 percent of the town of Krnov is underwater. "Water is flowing over the whole of Krnov," Deputy Mayor Miroslav Binar said. "We estimate that 70-80 percent of the town is under water."

Romania has also seen devastation, with six people dead since Saturday and thousands of homes damaged. Rescue efforts have saved hundreds of stranded residents. "The effects were most critical in seven localities," said Interior Minister Cătălin Predoiu.

Floodwaters also caused significant damage in Slovakia and Hungary, with rivers rising to near-record levels. The Danube River in Budapest is forecasted to swell to over 8.5 meters, nearing historic highs.

EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressed solidarity with affected countries. Von der Leyen extended condolences to victims' families and offered support to those dealing with the disaster. 

As Storm Boris moves south, rainfall is expected to ease, but flooding could persist in already waterlogged areas.

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