The persistently frosty temperatures of the past few days have made it possible to skate on frozen waters in many places. However, with an imminent rise in temperatures, firefighters are warning that the ice may no longer be thick enough and are urging caution. Alongside the wintery fun, frozen rivers are also raising concerns, with authorities in some areas warning of potential flooding.
Despite the icy temperatures, the sunny weather of recent days has drawn many people outdoors. In some places, frozen surfaces have tempted people to go ice skating. However, as temperatures rise in the coming days, the ice can quickly become unstable. If the ice breaks, firefighters advise people to distribute their weight by lying flat and carefully rolling towards the shore. Fire brigades regularly train for rescues in cases where individuals have fallen through the ice.
Melting Ice Could Lead to Flooding
The rising temperatures are causing the ice to melt rapidly, increasing water levels and potentially leading to rivers bursting their banks. In addition to higher water volumes, ice floes also pose a risk, as they can break away suddenly and release accumulated water. According to the authorities, the situation is currently under control, though there is a risk of short-term flooding or damage, particularly in smaller streams.
The Czech Republic has not seen such an icy landscape for several winters. However, a rapid thaw is expected this weekend. According to meteorologists, temperatures will first rise in south-west Bohemia, reaching between five and nine degrees Celsius on Friday afternoon. In the rest of the country, initial highs of minus one to four degrees are forecast. While temperatures above eight degrees Celsius will remain rare over the weekend, values of eight to ten degrees could already be reached by Monday afternoon.
