Still more evacuated as rivers rise: dozens of municipalities remain on highest flood alert

Dozens of municipalities around the Czech Republic have remained on highest alert as rain and melting snow have continued to dangerously swell rivers throughout parts of the country. At around midnight on Friday around 2,000 people were ordered to evacuate parts of the town of Olomouc in Moravia at risk from flooding from the Morava River, now risen to four times its normal level. Some inhabitants reportedly refused, but will be forced out if need be, a city spokesman has said. Nearby Litovel could also be affected.

Throughout the country soldiers and emergency crews have been busy reinforcing river banks and securing flood defences. Other areas hit by flooding include southern Moravia's Znojmo region on the Dyje River, and the north Bohemian city of Usti nad Labem. In the regions more than 10,000 people have already been evacuated and further evacuations are likely.

A central crisis committee meeting has also been called - and the Cabinet will meet on Sunday to discuss additional steps.