As floods keep embankments closed, Prague asks public to keep away

As the rain subsides and flood conditions improve in Prague, the City’s Flood Commission has announced plans to remove flood defenses throughout the city gradually. Starting today, workers in the Braník and Troja areas are dismantling flood defenses as Vltava River levels drop. However, the main Náplavka embankment will remain closed to pedestrians until at least Monday.

Prague’s embankments, home to one of the city's most popular farmer's markets will remain closed this weekend as essential remediation, cleaning, and inspections of electrical equipment are necessary for public safety. The ongoing risk of falling trees due to waterlogged soil also poses a hazard in parks and wooded areas.

The Flood Commission of Prague continues to monitor the situation and met earlier this week to assess conditions. While water levels in the Vltava are decreasing, the main Náplavka embankment will remain off-limits to pedestrians until safety measures are confirmed. Flow rates must drop to 450 cubic meters per second (m³/s) before cleaning and safety checks can begin, with current levels of 700 m³/s is still too high. The city is set to remove flood defenses from Malá Strana and Zbraslav from Monday.

"We think that all barriers should be removed by the end of next week," Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda said in a recent press release. Cleaning work could already begin on the embankments this week; officials ask the public for patience and say the aim is to avoid unnecessary danger to Prague residents or visitors with the current closure.

"We hope that during the weekend the cleaning work could already begin on the embankments," said Deputy Mayor Komrsková. "We ask for patience; our main goal is to avoid unnecessary danger to Prague residents or visitors," Komrsková said.

The State Navigation Administration has announced that navigation on the Vltava River will resume only in the section between the Jirásek and Barrandov bridges. In other parts of the city, boat transport and other activities on the river such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing, are strictly prohibited and could result in a fine of up to CZK 100,000.

The city reminds people to not swim or paddle in the Vltava, as some rule-breaking residents had done recently. The commission also wants to warn residents about the potential danger of falling trees due to waterlogged soil in parks, forest parks, and other areas with mature trees. The city is actively checking these areas and asks people to limit outdoor activities and exercise caution.

While popular weekend hangouts along the embankments remain closed, residents can still look forward to a lively array of block and neighborhood parties as the weather brightens – a dramatic change from widespread cancellations that dampened last weekend's outdoor festivals and events.

Despite the flood situation around the country, dozens of street parties in the capital – around 50 in total – and around Czechia are set to go ahead this weekend as the country prepares for its 19th year of traditional neighborhood festivities. Some, on the other hand, have been canceled or postponed. A full list of participating roads and squares, with amended dates where applicable, is available on the event’s official website.

In the capital, roads and squares such as Opatovická, Anenské náměstí, Ve Smečkách, and Soukenická (all Prague 1) will hold block parties over the weekend. 

According to Barbora Hradečná from sustainable-transport firm AutoMat, a co-organizer, the event allows neighbors to experience their familiar street in a new and unique way. This year's theme is "Slow down," encouraging individuals to take their time and appreciate their surroundings.

Na Slupi and Vytoň streets (Prague 2), Slezská Street (Prague 3), and Holandská Street (Prague 10) will also take part. The renowned Americká Street neighborhood party is rescheduled to Saturday, Oct. 5.

Prague is urging residents to stay informed through media outlets and the city's website, where updates on the flood situation and any necessary measures will be provided. The Flood Commission will meet again on Monday to discuss and specify all measures.