Prague brings flood defence system into operation as meteorologists warn of floods

Prague’s flood defence system was brought into operation on Thursday, amidst warnings of rising water levels across the country’s rivers. Flood gates on the outskirts of the capital were closed, blocking river traffic from entering into the metropolis. As snow melts in Moravia and eastern Bohemia, and with 15 mm of rain forecast for Friday, meteorologists warned of the possibility of floods in the capital going into the weekend. River traffic within the capital itself has not been disrupted, but many boats moored along the Vltava have been ordered to go to the harbour in Holešovice. Local authorities have said that they are taking precautions and that the situation as yet does not look too dangerous.