Situation in flood affected areas calms but more rain forecast

The situation in much of the flood affected areas in the Czech Republic is calming down as most swollen rivers have begun to recede. People are starting to return to their homes. Water levels in the badly hit northern region around Usti nad Labem are no longer rising but the homes of 1,645 residents are still flooded and dozens of roads remain closed. A state of emergency declared in seven of the country's 14 regions has been extended until April 19.

The Environment Ministry says Wednesday's rain should not lead to more flooding. Economists estimate the flood damage this year to be considerably lower than that seen in 1997 and 2002, though accurate figures will have to wait until the flood waters recede completely. Seven flood-related deaths have already been reported.