Bavaria flooding — what you need to know now

If you’re in Bavaria or planning to travel there, flooding can change plans fast. Floods here often come from heavy rains that swell the Danube, Isar and smaller rivers. Roads close, power can fail, and basements fill with water. Stay calm and follow clear steps — this page gives practical advice you can use right away.

Immediate safety steps

First, call 112 in an emergency. If you smell gas or see live wires in water, move to higher ground and keep others away. Don’t drive through flooded roads; six inches of water can stall a car, and deeper water can sweep vehicles away. If water is rising at your home, take important documents and medicines in a waterproof bag and head to the highest safe floor or an emergency shelter.

Turn off electricity at the main switch if you can reach it safely. Unplug appliances, but avoid touching switches or plugs if you’re standing in water. Keep a battery-powered radio or phone with a charged power bank so you can get alerts even if the power goes out.

Follow reliable sources

Get weather and flood alerts from Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) and local town or county (Landkreis) pages. The Bavarian State Ministry for Home Affairs posts official notices and evacuation orders. Check municipal social media for shelter locations and road closures. Avoid rumors on social apps — official accounts post verified updates and instructions for residents.

If you need help, contact local emergency services or the Deutsches Rotes Kreuz (German Red Cross). They run shelters and help with urgent needs. For non-urgent questions about damage and relief, your Gemeinde office or county administration can point you to aid and local volunteers.

Thinking about insurance? If you have household or property insurance, contact your insurer right away. Ask about cover for 'elemental damage' or natural hazards and follow their claim steps. Take photos and short videos of damage before moving things. That visual record speeds up claims and helps recovery.

After water recedes, hygiene matters. Flood water can be contaminated. Wear boots and gloves when cleaning. Boil tap water if authorities warn about contamination. Throw out food that touched flood water and clean surfaces with disinfectant. If you feel unwell after contact with flood water, seek medical advice.

Want to help? Donate money to trusted charities like the German Red Cross or local relief funds. If you volunteer, wait for organized efforts — random rescues can be dangerous without training. Local groups and municipalities coordinate safe volunteer work and supplies distribution.

Floods are stressful, but clear steps reduce harm. Keep emergency numbers handy, follow official updates, and document damage for insurers. If you need specific local contacts or links, check your town’s website or reach out to local authorities for the fastest help.