Torrigious rains demand 35 fire brigade operations in Schweinbach!

Torrigious rains demand 35 fire brigade operations in Schweinbach!

In the night of June 15, 2025, the municipalities of Engerwitzdorf and Gallneukirchen occurred a massive heavy rain event, which was classified as a major damage event to a previously unknown extent. From 9:45 p.m., the volunteer fire departments of the region were alerted, which led to a total of 35 operations by the volunteer fire brigade (FF) Schweinbach. The control center Florian Schweinbach was occupied and all available forces were mobilized to meet the extreme weather conditions.

The heavy rain, which delivered large amounts of rain within a short time, led to floods in various streets, cellars and living rooms. The Simlingfeld district was particularly affected, in which almost all houses were affected by the water masses. Parts of the water stood up to the basement ceiling. The road connections were also affected: Simling's road to the warehouse was closed to prevent further damage.

use of the fire brigades and flood alarm

The fire brigades were in constant use until the early hours of the morning. At 11:15 p.m. due to the rapidly increasing level of the large Gusen flood alarm, additional forces for flood protection were parked. The emergency services received support from the fire brigades Treffling and Schmiedgassen, which were also actively involved in the missions.

A review of flood events shows that floods are one of the most common natural disasters worldwide. According to a report by Statista, floods have caused almost 37 percent of all natural disasters since 2000. These developments are closely linked to global climate change, which favors more intensive rainfall and more frequent heavy rain events. In Germany, about 8 percent of the total area are sealed, which reinforces the accumulation of water in urban areas and increases the risk of flood.

future challenges and necessary measures

The Schweinbach volunteer fire brigade and the adjacent fire departments are faced with the challenge of further improving their operational and equipment in order to have grown future natural events. The importance of functioning flood protection and effective emergency strategies is becoming increasingly clearer in this context.