Rescue Services in Pärnu Expect Floodwater Pumping to Continue for at Least Another Day

Estonia’s Rescue Board said Saturday afternoon that pumping to remove excess water would continue in Pärnu for at least another 24 hours.

The largest operations were taking place in the Rääma stream area of Pärnu, around Sinioja in Paikuse and on Pärnu Road in the city of Sindi. Preparations were also under way to pump water in the Tammiste residential district.

Rescue workers had operated in shifts throughout the night. Their efforts had begun to lower water levels, but the authorities said the current conditions required pumping to continue for at least another day. Local professional and volunteer rescue teams were joined by reinforcements from across Estonia, with extra pumping resources sent from Elva, Iisaku, Tallinn, Muuga, Rakvere and Valga. The Rescue Union’s technical rescue unit was also involved.

Residents whose buildings had been flooded were told to stay away from submerged substations, electrical equipment and cables. They were advised not to use water-damaged electrical appliances and, where possible, to have electrical, heating and water systems checked by specialists. Anyone facing a threat to life or health was urged to call 112.