Authorities say floods in Germany killed at least 50 people and left more than 1,000 others missing when rivers breached their banks, washed away cars, and destroyed buildings on Thursday.
According to the administration of Ahrweiler, which is located in the western state of Rhineland-Palatinate, up to 1,300 individuals are presumed missing.
According to The Associated Press, at least 30 persons died in North Rhine-Westphalia and 28 in adjacent Rhineland-Palatinate to the south.
Wreaking Havoc
Storms wreaked havoc in Belgium, resulting in eight deaths, according to the media. Flooding also hit Luxembourg and the Netherlands.
People were stuck on rooftops in Germany due to severe rains and storms, and officials utilized inflatable boats and helicopters to identify and rescue inhabitants. In addition, soldiers from the German army were dispatched to help with the operation.
The scenario is "marked by dread, despair, and pain," said German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who was in Washington, D.C. on Thursday to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden.
Hundreds of thousands of people were affected by the disaster, she claimed, and their houses were turned into death traps.
"My heart and empathy go out to all of those who lost loved ones in this disaster or who are still worried about the fate of individuals who are still missing," she added.
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Sentiments and Assistance
Biden also offered his sympathies and the condolences of the American people to individuals in Germany and other nations who have been affected by flooding.
Edgar Gillessen of Schuld, Ahrweiler, described the destruction as "absolutely terrible."
"I'm familiar with everyone who lives here. I pity them since they've lost everything. They just have what they had on them, and it's all gone, "Reuters quoted Gillessen, 65, as saying. "Nothing remained of a friend's workshop over there. Everything has vanished, including the bakery and butcher. It's terrifying. Unimaginable."
Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Commission, expressed her condolences to those impacted by the floods in Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands and stated that the European Union stands ready to assist.
In Belgium, the Vesdre River burst its banks, sending torrents of water churning through the streets of Pepinster, near Liege, and knocking down some houses.
According to the European Commission, France has deployed a helicopter and a rescue team to Belgium to assist local authorities, and Italy and Austria have provided flood rescue teams.
Storm Anxiety
Whether severe or not, increased anxiety during storms may arise from a past negative experience with weather or a sensation of being out of control in these situations.
Predicting the arrival of a hurricane, tornado, blizzard, or any other catastrophic event creates fear and anxiety among people who live in its path for a good reason.
Natural disasters wreak havoc on people's lives, causing physical and mental health problems as well as significant economic hardship. In addition, the frequent news of a storm approaching may increase your anxiety, stress, and fear.
Also Read: Storm Anxiety: How to Handle Extreme Weather Phobias During Hurricane Season
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