Following unprecedented flooding in north-western Europe, the EIB has donated, through the EIB Institute, €500 000 for flood relief and disaster preparedness in Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Between 14 and 15 July 2021, severe flash flooding caused devastation in north-western Europe, namely in Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, claiming over 200 lives (with many still missing) mostly in Germany and Belgium, injuring many more and forcing thousands to leave their homes.
In Luxembourg, no fatalities were reported. However, the material and emotional damage is significant. The municipalities of Born, Echternach, Rosport Steinheim and Vianden were the worst affected communities.
The flash floods were caused by record-breaking torrential rains. In Luxembourg, the maximum precipitation in 12 hours and 24 hours reached accumulations of 74.2 mm and 79.4 mm, beating the previous records set on 22 July 2016 of 60.4 mm and 70.6 mm.
Through the Institute, the EIB has in the recent past contributed to relief efforts following other natural disasters.