Chaos in Brașov after storm; ambulance and cars trapped by floodwaters

Brașov, Romania, experienced significant disruption Thursday evening as torrential rains triggered widespread flooding. The downpour, which had affected other parts of the country in recent days, overwhelmed drainage systems, leading to inundated streets, submerged basements, and fallen trees.

The most critical incidents occurred in the underpass on Hărmanului Street, where an ambulance and two passenger cars became trapped in rapidly rising floodwaters. Firefighters were dispatched to rescue the vehicles and pump out the water, while other teams addressed flooded properties throughout the city.

Emergency services reported 16 cases of flooded basements, cellars, and courtyards. Firefighters also cleared fallen trees from several streets, including 13 Decembrie, Carierei, and Calea Făgărașului. Brașov was under a severe weather warning, a "code orange," valid until 3 a.m. Friday, with forecasts predicting intense thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail.