North Moravian city of Opava begins evacuating thousands of residents as floodwaters rise

The city of Opava in north Moravia has started evacuating thousands of residents from areas threatened by rising floodwaters, with the river Opava already overflowing in some places. The evacuation affects the largest housing estate, Kateřinky, as well as other areas. The river is expected to peak between 2:00 and 6:00 a.m. on Sunday. Mayor Tomáš Navrátil urged residents to secure their belongings and follow evacuation procedures calmly. Emergency shelters have been set up, and authorities are providing food, water, and basic necessities. Floodwaters could surpass the devastating levels seen in 1997.