Amanda and her family, along with numerous other Hamburg residents and tourists, took advantage of the severe weather to visit the fish market on a Friday morning. The Elbe river was causing a significant storm surge, flooding the area, and the water level reached an astounding 3.33 meters above mean high water. The last cars were being towed away from the already flooded parking areas on the riverbank. Emergency services, including the police, fire department, and Hamburg Wasser, were present to ensure safety.
The fish auction hall was completely submerged by the floodwaters, and only half of the bus stop signs along the Große Elbstraße remained visible. The Elbe river reached right up to the facades of the houses at the fish market, flooding numerous stores and restaurants. The atmosphere was generally relaxed, with spectators expressing awe at the impressive sight.
Seventy-year-old Gudrun Wetzel came to the promenade at the fish market with her two grandchildren, reminding them that Hamburg had the necessary infrastructure and was well-prepared for such situations. The city had closed the flood gate, helping reassure residents like Ms. Wetzel that they were safe.
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Despite the chaos and the looming threat of flooding, many people were drawn to the weather-affected fish market in Hamburg. The storm surge had caused significant damage to the area, and the police and fire department were present to maintain safety. Some cars were even stuck in the floodwaters. However, Hamburg's authorities had taken adequate measures to protect the city, having closed the flood gate and implemented various strategies to mitigate climate change and improve resilience. These included investing in levees and flood barriers, implementing efficient drainage systems, focusing on renewable energy, adhering to a waste management and circular economy model, and having clearly defined climate change adaptation plans and a strong public engagement policy. These measures helped reassure residents like Gudrun Wetzel and maintain order in the midst of the storm surge.
