As the floods in the north of Alsace begin to calm down, the orange alert remains. Why? Discover the reasons behind this crucial decision in our weather article!
The situation is improving, but why is the orange alert maintained for the coming days?
After the heavy rains on Friday, the situation is gradually improving in the north of Alsace. The swollen rivers are beginning to stabilize and the closed roads are gradually reopening. However, despite this improvement, the orange alert is maintained for the coming days. Let’s explore the reasons for this continued alert.
Orange alert maintained for flooding
The prefecture of Bas-Rhin has announced that the orange alert is maintained for flooding in the department. Although the yellow alert for rain and flooding has been lifted, the weather situation remains under surveillance. Localized thunderstorms are expected in the department this afternoon or evening, which could worsen the situation.
The authorities remain fully mobilized, with firefighters, police, and gendarmerie ready to intervene if necessary.
Recognition of natural disaster for Diemeringen
A request for recognition of a natural disaster will be submitted by Prefect Josiane Chevalier for the municipality of Diemeringen. This request is motivated by the impact of the floods on the homes and businesses of the municipality. Diemeringen has been particularly affected by the rising waters, with several residents forced to seek refuge in the cultural center or with relatives.
Return to apparent normalcy in Diemeringen
Despite the damage caused by the floods, the situation in Diemeringen seems to be returning to normal. Mayor Nicole Oury stated that the water rose as quickly as it fell, but everything seems to have returned to normal this Saturday. Electricity has been restored, but it will still take some time to restore gas.
Fortunately, there are no injuries to report, but shopkeepers have suffered considerable damage. The nursery school has also been affected, despite recent renovations. Some families had to sleep at the cultural center or with relatives, but most residents were able to return to their homes.
Update on the Haguenau sector
In the Haguenau sector, several municipalities have closed access to streets near the Moder due to flooding. Authorities report, however, that there have been no accidents or victims so far.
In Bischwiller, the quay of the Moder and some streets have been closed to traffic. Water levels are starting to recede across the sector, and the situation should improve. The D29 has also been closed due to a fallen tree on the road.
In the area of Niederbronn-les-Bains and Reichshoffen, the situation is under control with a decrease in water levels since this morning.
A35 North reopened to traffic
Finally, good news for motorists, the A35 North has been reopened to traffic this morning. The heavy rains had made traffic impossible on part of the highway, leading to its closure yesterday afternoon. Thanks to the interventions of the services of the European Community of Alsace, the situation is now restored.
Despite the improvement in the situation, it is important to remain vigilant in the coming days. The localized thunderstorms expected in the department could still cause flooding and disruptions.