Prague Closes Gates on Čertovka and Embankments due to Flood Threat

Water levels in Czech rivers and streams continued to rise on Monday due to heavy rain and melting snow. 

“Extraordinary security measures related to the increased risk of flooding will be in force for Prague residents and visitors from 1 pm. The embankments will be closed and other flood barriers will be activated,” said Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda (ODS).

Flows have increased on the crucial watercourses, which are the Vltava and Sázava rivers. Although their peak and future decline are expected, and the Berounka has already peaked, the increased flow will continue for several days.

In addition, the operation of the ferries in Prague 1, 2 and 6 will also be suspended from Monday at 1 pm as a precautionary measure.

In Prague 1, 2 and 5, the embankments will be closed to the public, including boarding and disembarking boats.

Vehicles parked on the site must be unparked to avoid any danger or damage to property. All measures taken are in place until further notice.

The steps taken now are precautionary and the City will continue to monitor the situation as it develops. According to the Czech Hydrological Office, the worst situation on Monday after noon was in the upper basin of the Sázava River, where more water is still flowing.