Czech flood situation tense as Elbe river crests in Slovakian capital

The situation in the flood-stricken areas of the Czech Republic remains tense, with numerous gauging stations still at the highest flood alert level, posing a danger to people and property.

In the northern Bohemian city of Ústí nad Labem, near the border with Germany, the Elbe river's crest is not expected until Tuesday evening.

In South Bohemia region, the historic Rožmberk fish pond is at risk of overflowing. If the large body of water rises too high, it would dramatically escalate the situation for communities along the Lužnice river.

The government in Prague gave the green light on Monday evening for the deployment of up to 2,000 soldiers in the disaster areas in the east of the country. At least three people have died due to the flooding.

In neighbouring Slovakia, people are anxiously watching the Danube.

The crest of the river reached the capital, Bratislava, early on Tuesday. A peak of around 9.7 metres above the local zero gauge point was recorded. Normally, it remains around 2 metres.

The waterfront areas were submerged but flood protection walls shielded the historic Old Town. Zoo animals were taken to safety.

In the outer district of Devínska Nová Ves, people had to leave their homes due to the high water. Environment Minister Tomáš Taraba estimated the damage in Slovakia to be at least €20 million ($22.2 million).