Alpine regions of Austria faced heavy rains over the weekend, leading to significant flooding in parts of Vienna and causing extensive damage. Authorities and local media reported disruptions to both road and rail transport.
On Friday, torrents of muddy water swept cars through the ski resort of St. Anton in western Austria. Social media footage captured these dramatic scenes. By Saturday, record rainfall had struck eastern Vienna, according to the state broadcaster ORF.
In the Doebling area in northern Vienna, flooding dragged a woman under a bus. She was critically injured and hospitalised, ORF reported. The capital’s fire services responded to over 450 emergency calls on Saturday due to the downpours, resulting in traffic chaos and rail disruptions.
#BREAKING #Austria Heavy floods in Sankt Anton am Arlberg, Austria. pic.twitter.com/30EMjT9ihd
— The National Independent (@NationalIndNews) August 17, 2024
Chancellor Karl Nehammer acknowledged the extensive damage caused by the storms in many parts of Austria. He expressed gratitude to officials working on the clean-up via a post on X.
The Doebling district recorded 110 litres of rain per square metre, marking a new record for August rainfall in Vienna, according to ORF meteorologist Kevin Hebenstreit. Weather data firm UBIMET noted that a significant portion of Vienna’s average summer rainfall fell within just one hour on Saturday. Typically, August sees a total of 68 litres per square metre, with the all-time record being 139 litres on 15th May 1885.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What caused the flooding in Austria?
Heavy rains lashed Alpine regions and Vienna, causing severe flooding and damage.
How did the flooding affect Vienna?
The flooding caused traffic chaos, disrupted rail transport, and resulted in over 450 fire service callouts.
Was anyone injured due to the flooding in Vienna?
Yes, a woman was dragged under a bus by the floodwaters and is in critical condition.
How much rain fell in Vienna’s Doebling district?
Officials recorded 110 litres of rain per square metre, a record for August.
What did Austria’s Chancellor say about the storms?
Chancellor Karl Nehammer thanked officials for their efforts in clearing up the damage.