Storm chaos in Kenzingen: Streets flooded and cleaning up

Storm chaos in Kenzingen: Streets flooded and cleaning up

storms and heavy rain have caused considerable damage in the Kenzingen area (district of Emmendingen) in the last few days. According to SWR , the rain caused roads, inner courtyards and cellars within a few minutes. Ralf Reichert's courtyard was particularly affected in Bombach-Kenzingen, where the water was up to 40 cm high. The heavy rain turned a small stream into a raging stream that flowed through the barn into the courtyard. Fortunately, Ralf Reichert was able to bring his chickens and Capuchin monks to safety, but cleaning up in the region are in full swing.

The day after the storm, the water has been run through, but a lot of mud remains. Residents and roadmasters are required to eliminate the damage. District forester Johannes Kaesler reported rainfall of over 100 liters per square meter in an hour that left massive damage. In the residents, there is concern about who pays the costs for the damage because the damage to property is considerable. The technical relief organization (THW) provides valuable support in pumping the water, for which Reichert expressly thanks.

challenges from climate change

The cause of such extreme weather phenomena can also be found in the more common heavy rain events that are favored by climate change. The German Weather Service defines storm events as more than 10 mm rain within an hour or over 20 mm in six hours. These weather conditions bring large amounts of water with them in a short time and can lead to floods, sub -flushing and slope slides. The city of Kenzingen has been struggling with heavy rain in recent years and has increasingly also has to be on other consequences of climate change such as flood and heat. prepare.

The risks that go with heavy rain enable citizens to identify potential dangers through heavy rain hazard cards and to take suitable preventive measures. These maps are based on the guidelines for heavy rain risk management in Baden-Württemberg and help those affected to adapt to risks for their property and health independently.

comparison with other extreme events

The developments in Kenzingen appear against the background of global weather extreme. Extremes such as catastrophic floods in the Spanish province of Valencia in October 2024, where over 200 people died, illustrate the dimension of these challenges. Weather phenomena such as the "cold air drop" also caused heavy rains in Central and Eastern Europe. Since the 1950s, the scientists have found that severe rainfalls have become more and more intensive worldwide. According to Deutschlandfunk this is also a direct consequence of climate warming.

The residents of Kenzingen are now asked to adapt to the new reality and to secure their own four walls through suitable protective measures. The pictures of the recent storm disasters in southern Germany have been urgently illustrated and emphasized the need for a comprehensive risk management.