Nysa residents unite to avert catastrophe

On Monday afternoon, dire evacuation orders shook the small Polish town of Nysa, soaked after a relentless spell of heavy rain. Residents swiftly assisted elderly neighbors into vehicles, making their way to higher ground, while others rushed to the roadside embankment to stave off the swelling river.

In a remarkable display of unity, thousands toiled through the rainy night, forming a human chain to pass sandbags in a bid to fortify the embankments. Among them were the city's professional men's volleyball team, who joined the effort without hesitation. By morning, the peril seemed to have receded, and calamity was averted, largely due to the indomitable spirit of the residents.

"The heroic efforts of the community have undeniably made a difference. It was an incredible sight to witness the determination and solidarity of everyone involved," noted Kordian Kolbiarz, the mayor, in a jubilant Facebook post on Tuesday. "The chain of volunteers on top of the embankment played a pivotal role in safeguarding Nysa!"

Impact of Storm Boris

The ordeal faced by Nysa is emblematic of the broader plight experienced by several communities in Central Europe due to Storm Boris, which has caused fatal consequences, including the death of at least 20 individuals. The storm's wrath has left towns submerged, bridges torn apart, and dams breached, displacing thousands from their homes. The extent of the destruction is evident as communities grapple with the aftermath of the storm, underscoring the importance of preparedness and swift response in the face of such natural disasters.