Four years after the flood: Eifelkreis massively strengthens disaster protection

Four years after the flood: Eifelkreis massively strengthens disaster protection

On July 14, 2025, four years after the devastating flood disaster triggered by the “Bernd” depression, Jürgen Larisch, disaster control coordinator in the Eifel district of Bitburg-Prüm, takes stock. This natural disaster not only had serious consequences for many of those affected, but also opened up significant gaps in disaster preparedness. The record rainfall caused flooding, destruction and even one death. But how has disaster protection changed since then?

Larisch emphasizes that the Eifel district has upgraded in many areas. Be it technology, equipment or the entire organization in disaster control - the course has been set for improved hazard prevention. Cooperation between politics, administration, fire departments, aid organizations and the population plays a crucial role. “Having a good hand” is what it means to work together to overcome the challenges of rural areas and ensure the long-term security of volunteer work.

Preparing for future dangers

The preparations are not only designed for severe weather events, but also take other dangers such as chemical accidents, forest fires or power outages into account. For this purpose, a refined warning system was implemented, which now relies on a “warning mix” of sirens, loudspeakers and apps such as NINA and Katwarn. However, there is often criticism: sometimes warnings are perceived as too frequent or inaccurate, especially when heavy rain occurs locally.

There are now well-organized sandbag teams in Bitburg that are prepared for emergencies. Fixed concepts ensure that spontaneous helpers can also be effectively integrated into operations. What should not be neglected, however, are the psychological consequences of the flood disaster. Many people are still suffering from the material and emotional burdens of the disaster. Psychosocial aftercare is therefore crucial to support those affected.

Long-term support from the population

The population's willingness to help was initially high, but long-term commitment to volunteer work remains a challenge that still needs to be overcome. The victims continue to be supported through numerous voluntary work, as the Johanniter report. Since the flood, over 600 helpers from North Rhine-Westphalia have been active in disaster control to help those affected. This help consists not only of financial resources, but also of personal care and psychological support.

Long-term projects, such as organizing conversation cafés or holiday projects for children, contribute to the psychological stability of those affected. In addition, a large part of the support was made available for reconstruction, including significant resources from the EU Solidarity Fund. Germany alone will receive over 612 million euros to support reconstruction after the devastating floods in 2021, the EU Commission praises.

This financial aid will not only be used to repair the damaged infrastructure, but also for clean-up work and the protection of cultural heritage. The support can be used retroactively from the first day of the disaster as well as for future emergencies.

Larisch concludes with a clear appeal: "It is important that we do not forget the lessons from the flood disaster and continue to actively deal with the risks. This is the only way we can better cope with future disasters." The successful past should inspire us to approach the future with a heightened awareness.