In the wake of destructive September floods, the Moravian-Silesian Region of the Czech Republic faces a daunting recovery process. Structural engineers have determined that 72 buildings, including 37 family homes, must be demolished due to severe damage. The majority of these structures are located along the upper reaches of the Opava River in the Bruntál district, as reported by Radim Kuchař, director of the Moravian-Silesian fire department.
The demolition efforts will primarily focus on communities such as Zátor, Široká Niva, Brantice, Holčovice, Karlovice, Nové Heřminovy, and Vrbno pod Pradědem. Additionally, six buildings in Ostrava’s Nová Ves neighborhood are also scheduled for demolition. Among the structures to be razed is a cinema in Široká Niva, along with various agricultural buildings and workshops.
Safety concerns are driving the urgency of some demolitions, with firefighters taking charge of buildings that pose immediate threats to surrounding structures or individuals in the vicinity. Commercial firms will handle other demolitions, while some property owners opt to dismantle their buildings themselves.
The region’s recovery efforts extend beyond structural concerns. Governor Josef Bělica (ANO) reported that nearly 400 soldiers with 98 pieces of equipment are still operating in the area. Infrastructure challenges persist, with 121 gas connection points in Holčovice, Bruntál district, remaining disconnected. A nursing home in the area is temporarily relying on gas supplied by tanker. Electricity outages continue to affect 31 homes in the region.
Despite these challenges, progress is being made. ČEZ, the primary electricity provider, has already replaced 3,000 water-damaged electric meters, with more replacements underway. Authorities assure that electric heating capabilities are sufficient for those in need. As the region works towards recovery, the resilience of its communities is being put to the test in the face of this natural disaster.