Assessment of Flood Risks in Bavaria by THW (German Rapid Deployment Forces)

The Technical Relief Organization (THW) has been instrumental in the flood recovery efforts in Munich and other affected areas in southern Bavaria. Deployed worldwide on behalf of the federal government, the THW provides technical and logistical assistance within the European Union's civil protection mechanism and for UN organizations.

Heavy rain in the region caused severe flooding, particularly affecting the government districts of Swabia, Upper and Lower Bavaria. The situation reached the highest alert level 4 in several counties. Over 3,000 helpers, including THW personnel, have been involved in the efforts so far.

Christoph Baumann, the head of the THW Landesverband Bayern, led the organization during the flood crisis. Around 100 THW personnel are still in action, while preparations for the EURO24 deployment in Munich are ongoing in parallel.

Teams are using various methods to assess and manage the affected areas. Unmanned aerial vehicles with drones are being employed to explore the flooded regions. The special unit VOST (Virtual Operations Support Team) is providing a digital situation map for the water management authorities.

The THW forces have been battling the aftermath of the "Orinoco" storm since May 30th. They have pumped out millions of liters of water and filled and installed tens of thousands of sandbags. Oil-water mixtures released by the floods are being treated with separation facilities, reducing special waste volumes by about 90%. Over 3.5 million liters of oil-water mixture have been filtered so far.

The work is far from over, as the water is receding very slowly, making further clearing and securing measures more difficult. Teams are using excavators, wheel loaders, and telescopic handlers to clear streets and paths of mud, debris, and rubble.

The THW, a federal voluntary aid organization with over 80,000 volunteers nationwide, half of whom are operational personnel, is a sought-after supporter for fire services, police, aid organizations, and others due to its specialist knowledge and diverse experiences. To date, the deployment forces have completed around 83,000 deployment hours.

In the ongoing efforts, THW forces have provided catering for their own and other deployment forces, preparing over 7,000 meals daily. The THW in Bavaria has deployed all its competencies in the area of flood protection.

Press inquiries can be directed to the THW Bavarian State Association (contact information provided). The THW will continue to work in some regions for several more days, ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected communities.