Vienna streets and houses flooded as river overflows banks

The Austrian capital has been inundated by water after days of persistent rain.

The water level on the Wien river at the Kennedy Bridge in western Vienna rose from 50 centimetres to 2.26 metres in the course of one day, emergency authorities said.

Walking and bicycle paths are flooded, and restaurant terraces on the banks of the river are under water.

In the suburb of Penzing, north-west of Vienna, the Wien river burst its banks in some places. Homes were evacuated while streets and an underground car park were under water.

In three districts of Vienna, the power supply was interrupted. The electricity provider promised to restore service as quickly as possible.

Two metro lines in Vienna were partially suspended.

It is expected that the rain will subside in the course of Sunday afternoon.