Germany pledges support to neighbours hit by floods

The German government has pledged support to countries coping with the flooding that has struck Central Europe in recent days, as reports put the number of deaths at 11.

"People in our neighbouring countries, our partners in Europe and our own people need to know that we are watching the situation very closely and are ready to help," a government spokeswoman said in Berlin.

She noted the devastation in Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland and Romania.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said that the technical relief agency (THW) was ready "to provide immediate support when assistance is requested." A ministry spokeswoman said that no request had as yet been received.

Faeser said that the THW was watching the situation closely along the Elbe and Oder rivers in Germany and was ready to offer its support in the event of flooding.