One of the most devastating natural disasters in the history of Prague and the Czech Republic took place in late summer 2002. A series of freak weather incidents caused the Vltava river in the city to rise to dangerous levels and to flood the city. Although the effects were devastating, Prague has recovered and offers just as many attractions and sights to see as before.

Dangerous Water Levels

During the floods, parts of Prague’s historic Mala Strand district were completely covered with water and submerged beneath the overflowing river. As water levels rose, the prime minister of the Czech Republic had to authorize the use of reasonable force to remove and evacuate Czech citizens who had not left their homes already. The waters overtook the Kampa island that lies close to the Old Town and the river flooded old historic palaces and villas in the city.

The famous Charles Bridge, one of the best known and most popular tourist attractions in Prague, was also threatened by the floods. Residents of Prague had no water or electricity, and over 40,000 residents were forced to evacuate the city. Approximately 16 people died as a result of the floods and over 30,000 people were left homeless. Damages due to the disaster were estimated at about 90 billion Czech crowns, or approximately 2.83 billion dollars. Even the Prague Zoo lost several mammals and birds due to the floods, along with having to evacuate thousands more animals.

The waters receded later that year and today there is no danger for tourists visiting the Czech Republic or Prague. There are no health risks and al accommodations and facilities that were once closed due to flood damage are now open and operating. However, the floods are not something residents of Prague will easily forget. One of the worst disasters in over a hundred years to strike Prague, the floods will forever be a part of city history. Visitors to the city can find out more information about the floods and see affected structures and the Vltava river itself by taking a guided tour or simply doing research before their trip.