Austrian election campaign paused amid severe weather crisis

The severe storms across Austria have also disrupted the national election campaign, forcing Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer to suspend campaign events. 

Over the weekend, Nehammer cancelled his Upper Austrian election tour alongside state governor Thomas Stelzer to focus on disaster management. He convened the State Crisis and Disaster Management (SKKM) team at the Ministry of the Interior, stating that the current weather situation demands full attention. Nehammer reassured that federal funds would be allocated to assist with repairs, and additional funds would be made available if necessary.

SPÖ candidate Andreas Babler, who had planned to be in Klagenfurt, also cancelled campaign events. He stayed in Traiskirchen to lead local crisis efforts as mayor and volunteer firefighter. Babler addressed residents on Instagram, updating them on the local response. 

Other party leaders, including far-right FPÖ’s Herbert Kickl and liberal Neos’ Beate Meinl-Reisinger, echoed the sentiment of pausing the campaign to prioritise disaster relief.

Many political events and televised discussions have been postponed due to the storms, with decisions on rescheduling still pending.

‘Unprecedented situation’: Austria hit by torrential rain and floods

Austria was hit by devastating floods and extreme weather over the weekend. Authorities in Lower Austria have declared a disaster area, while Vienna’s public transport and power supply are under strain.

Vienna braces for second storm wave as floodwaters recede

The federal capital, Vienna, has been significantly affected by the recent storms, though water levels are now beginning to recede, according to Mayor Michael Ludwig. Six people have been injured due to the storm, primarily from falling branches and trees. No emergency workers have been harmed so far.

Mayor Ludwig cautioned that while the situation is improving, another wave of heavy rain and potential flooding is expected on Monday. Since Sunday, the Vienna professional fire brigade has dealt with over 1,100 emergency operations, responding to dangerous conditions near the Wien River and Liesingbach and clearing fallen trees, broken branches, and waterlogged buildings.

The fire brigade has increased its personnel in anticipation of more emergencies and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay clear of flood waters for safety.

New border controls in Germany target irregular migration

In response to irregular migration, Germany expanded its border controls on Monday to all land borders, including those with Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Denmark. Previously, checks were limited to borders with Poland, Austria, and other nearby countries. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser ordered the random checks, which will last for six months. Despite concerns from Austria and Poland, Chancellor Olaf Scholz said neighbouring countries understand the need for tighter controls to manage migration.

First ski lift opens after weekend snow

The weekend’s unpredictable weather led to the early opening of the first ski lift. On Sunday, around 300 skiers hit the slopes at Hochkeil near Mühlbach am Hochkönig (Pongau), taking advantage of fresh snowfall. The lift operated for several hours and will run again on Monday due to high demand. Cross-country skiers were also out, but off-piste skiing is discouraged due to avalanche risks.

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