Galati County – Cyclone Boris ravaged Galati County, Romania, on Saturday, leading to catastrophic floods that resulted in the deaths of five individuals and the displacement of over 250 residents. The cyclone dumped 150 liters of rain per square meter, causing widespread damage including power outages in over 25,000 homes and affecting roughly 5,000 households across 12 towns.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Romanian government has swiftly responded to the crisis. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu visited Slobozia Conachi, one of the towns most severely impacted by the floods. During his visit, Ciolacu emphasized that the government’s immediate focus is on saving lives and ensuring rapid response. He promised that displaced families would receive temporary housing, food, and other necessary supplies quickly.

The National Committee for Emergency Situations has authorized the release of emergency aid, which comprises 400 tons of food, sleeping bags, mattresses, and modular housing units to provide temporary shelter for those affected. Additionally, the Ministry of National Defense has deployed military personnel, rescue boats, and trucks to aid in rescue efforts.

Security measures have also been heightened to maintain order in the disaster-stricken area. The Romanian Gendarmerie has intensified patrols to deter looting and vandalism in the affected towns. A spokesperson for the Gendarmerie stated, “The safety of the people remains our top priority,” and urged residents to adhere to safety guidelines and avoid returning to hazardous areas until conditions are deemed safe.

As the region braces for more severe weather, with a red alert issued for heavy rain in nearby Vaslui County, the government continues to closely monitor the situation. Efforts to repair damaged infrastructure and restore normalcy are underway, following what has been described as the worst flooding in the region since 2016.