Breaking a streak of four consecutive weeks, the Vltava River in Český Krumlov is no longer at a flood level, marking a significant relief for residents. This positive development is attributed to an intensive drainage initiative from the Lipno Reservoir, strategically undertaken to prepare for potential further precipitation and upcoming snowmelt.

In recent weeks, the Vltava River had surged to the third flood level in Krumlov, causing heightened concern among local residents. As of Wednesday, the water level in Český Krumlov measured 183 centimeters. In contrast, at the beginning of the year, the river had peaked at the third level, reaching as high as 225 centimeters.

In response to the rising water levels, the citizens of Český Krumlov proactively placed approximately a thousand sandbags around the city. This collective effort primarily aimed to safeguard key areas, including pensions and restaurants situated along the riverbank. Despite these precautionary measures, Alexander Nogrády, the town’s mayor, reported minimal damage caused by the river over the past few weeks.

Nogrády commended the overall management of the situation with the Vltava River, describing the recent flood as a valuable “practice flood.” The experience provided insights into effectively handling similar situations in the future.

The increased water levels also shed light on specific areas in the city that are more susceptible to flooding, prompting considerations for enhanced protective measures. In response to this, the town is planning a meeting with the Vltava River Basin to evaluate and strategize additional steps for better flood resilience. This proactive approach underscores the community’s commitment to learning from experiences and implementing measures to safeguard against potential challenges posed by river dynamics in the future.

Article by Prague Forum