Flood year in Winnenden: Fight against the consequences and insurance

Flood year in Winnenden: Fight against the consequences and insurance

On June 1, 2025, the city of Winnenden will look back on a year full of challenges after devastating floods hit the region. Last year, a tidal wave from Berglen led to numerous fire brigade operations when cellar flooding was reported in Birkmannsweiler and other urban areas. Fortunately, all residents remained unharmed, and a firefighter was even able to save a senior citizen in the valley, it was reported ZVW.

The couple Gertrud and Hans Schafitel are one of the many couples suffering from the consequences of the flood. Their doors and windows suffered damage and much of their furniture was destroyed, resulting in the loss of precious memories. What was particularly impressive was the sight of their cellars, which were filled to the ceiling with mud.

Memories of past weather disasters

The current events in the region are particularly tragic after two extreme weather events took place in the Rems-Murr district on the same weekend. Heavy rain in the Welzheim Forest led to dangerous flooding, especially in Rudersberg. The damage is reminiscent of the Braunsbach disaster in 2016 BKZ reported.

One of the most serious consequences was the drowning death of two residents (58 and 84 years old) in Miedelsbach when the water level in their basement rose to over a meter. Even though the authorities were initially able to bring the situation under control, the danger became more acute due to another period of heavy rain on Sunday evening. Landslides, fallen trees and impassable roads made the rescue effort an enormous challenge for the emergency services on site.

consequences for the population

In total, hundreds of emergency services were busy with the rescue and evacuation, while the crisis teams were working in the district office. Evacuations for up to 10,000 people were ordered in Winterbach, Weinstadt, Remshalden and Waiblingen. A disaster alert was raised and the evacuation was lifted at 11:30 a.m., but the situation remained tense.

In Winnenden, the municipal building yard was flooded, damaging a third of the vehicles. The district administrator announced quick help for the many affected citizens and set up a citizens' hotline. The material damage is estimated at several million euros, and the need for relief measures remains for those affected.