Central Europe flooding: 4 dead in Poland, 1 in Czech Republic [Video]

WARSAW, Poland –

Heavy flooding pounded Central Europe on Monday, killing at least four more people in Poland and one in the Czech Republic.

Following an emergency government meeting, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced a state of natural disaster in the flooded areas to facilitate evacuation and rescue operations, as well as expedite financial support for the victims.

Tusk told a news conference that the Finance Ministry has so far earmarked one billion zlotys (US$258,000) for immediate payouts.

Water levels have subsided, leaving streets covered in debris and mud, damaged bridges and some burst dams and embankments. Schools and offices in the affected areas were closed Monday and drinking water and food were being delivered by trucks. Many Polish cities, including Warsaw, have called for food donations for flood survivors.

Experts are warning of a flood threat in Opole, a city of some 130,000 residents, where the Oder River has reached high levels …