Germany floods: Rescue efforts ramp up as destruction spreads to new areas

Berlin: Emergency workers in western Germany this weekend launched extensive rescue operations, as massive flooding leaves behind a trail of destruction in the region.

So far, at least 150 people have been reported dead in western Germany due to the flooding. This tally includes at least 110 people in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate and 43 in the neighboring state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

More than 850 soldiers from the German military are assisting with the relief efforts.

DW correspondents describe destruction, cleanup efforts

DW correspondents were on the ground in the hard-hit areas on Saturday, where they witnessed both the destruction from the flooding and the cleanup efforts taking place.

DW reporter Giulia Saudelli went to the heavily-impacted area of Ahrweiler, where she met with local residents. The locals described to her the horror of seeing their homes and businesses destroyed.

Alexander Petrovski, the owner of a local toy and game store, described how his shop was covered in nearly "one meter of water." 

Saudelli said volunteers in Ahrweiler had brought tractors and trucks to clear up the debris from the disaster. 

DW's Kate Brady was also in Ahrweiler, where she said "the extent of destruction is devastating." She described how local homeowners watched as floodwaters surrounded their house "from every direction." 

DW's Kate Martyr reported Saturday about a tragic scene in the town of Sinzig, where 12 individuals died after being trapped by the floodwaters in a home for people with disabilities.

Steinmeier, Laschet visit affected areas

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, along with North Rhine-Westphalia state premier Armin Laschet, visited Erftstadt, a town that was devastated by the flooding.