The head of Latvia's State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD), Mārtiņš Baltmanis, recently warned that the flood situation in Latvia this year is expected to be significantly more complicated than in recent years. In an interview with Latvian Radio, he referenced meteorological forecasts indicating that ice buildup and a thicker snow cover will lead to greater floods compared to the average historical standards.

Flooding is anticipated to begin in the Kurzeme region, specifically along the Ventā and Bārtā rivers, followed by the Lielupe basin and the Gauja river in areas such as Sigulda, Ādaži, and Carnikava, and eventually affecting the Daugava river in all its traditional flood zones. Baltmanis emphasized that this year’s floods could also impact areas around lakes and floodplain regions which are at risk of inundation, setting the stage for significant challenges.

With concerns growing about the potential for increased flooding, VUGD is preparing for the possibility of needing to rescue and evacuate residents from affected areas. Historical data suggests that people are generally receptive to evacuation assistance during such crises. This proactive stance reflects the need for community readiness and underscores the importance of early warnings and preparation to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters.