August 1, 2021

Often in Fall, Germany experiences rainy periods that can cause flash floods. But, most of the time, these floods disappear as fast as they show up. What has happened now has been described as incomprehensible, as germany floods have turned deadly and left very little remains.

The floods have killed at least 160 people in Germany, and the natural disaster warns citizens that major changes will be needed in order to begin preparation for similar events in the future. Due to the increased rainfall, water burst through riverbanks and made its way to communities, tearing them down as it flows.

The heavy rainfall may have been connected to climate change because of the rising average global temperature being 1.2 degrees Celsius higher. The warmer air temperature holds more moisture, releasing it as excess amounts of rain. The 1 degree average rise in global temperature increased the atmosphere to hold water by 7%, raising the chances of heavy rainfall. Germany was soaked in more than 15 centimeters of rain. Towards the end of the century, scientists are concerned that such storms could be 15 times more frequent.

This raises concerns for the government as well. The citizens as well as experts are highly concerned about the vulnerability of overpopulated communities, and weaker structures. The government has been told that Germany needs technical measures such as flood barriers, and remodeled cities. Though installing barriers and climate proof houses may cost billions of dollars, this experience of people in chest deep water and fear of losing everything shows the danger of nothing being done.

One years rainfall has fallen in three days. An assessment of rivers and water systems must now be done within areas vulnerable to climate change, including cities and farms. Not only do floods occur because of an increase in rainfall, but also because of a lack of capacity in rivers to get rid of additional rainwater that is collected. After experiencing so many floods in recent decades, buffers have been added and become stronger in many of Germany's rivers, such as the Rhine or the Elbe. Unfortunately, the recent extreme rainfall turned minor contributions like the Ahr and the Swist into fearful downpours.

Even though it is a big help to improve buildings, raise riverbanks, and improve drainage, it is not enough to solve the effects of this severe flooding. The warning systems in Germany were therefore heavily criticized for leaving people with not enough time to get to safety.

These recent and tragic events are currently being researched and spoken about on many platforms, so make sure to take the time to properly learn and educate yourself on what is going on around the world today, and as always stay safe!