Flood damage in 2024 surpasses that of 1997 and 2002 floods

The damage caused by the September 2024 floods, which hit especially the Moravian-Silesian and Olomouc regions, is expected to surpass the devastating floods of 1997 and 2002. More than 20,000 people were evacuated, and at least five people died, with eight still missing. The government will release CZK 40 billion to assist in recovery, with this year's budget deficit increased by CZK 30 billion. Total damage is expected to exceed CZK 150 billion. Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura noted that in previous floods, the state covered about a quarter of the costs.