Bosnia, Serbia hit by worst floods in 120 yearsMay 16, 2014 - 17:23 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - State of emergency has been declared in parts of Bosnia and Serbia after the heaviest rain and worst floods since records began 120 years ago, BBC News reports. Overflowing rivers have burst into towns and villages, cutting off whole communities, while landslides have buried houses. At least three people have drowned. Army helicopters have been sent to evacuate thousands of stranded residents but reports say bad weather is hampering the rescue efforts. Serbia's Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic said it was the "greatest flooding disaster ever". He said his government had appealed for help from the European Union, Russia and neighboring countries. Rescuers in Serbia say they have so far managed to evacuate around 4,000 people. In Bosnia, army helicopters have been trying to rescue residents, some of whom have been sitting on their roofs waiting for help. But reports say strong wind and rain may be hampering the efforts. "We had to abort the mission because of the rainfall and winds. The weather is horrible and the helicopter has its limits," said rescue pilot Fahrudin Memic. "This is the most difficult mission I have ever participated in." Thousands of homes are without electricity. Photo: Reuters Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Armenian, Saudi Foreign Minister meet in Riyadh The two commended the positive dynamics of the development of political dialogue between Armenia and Saudi Arabia Pashinyan: Azerbaijan’s proximity shouldn’t worry border residents At the same time, he said that he “does not guarantee [the security of villagers] one hundred percent”. U.S. doesn’t see Russia as contributing to peace in Caucasus Patel made the remarks when asked about the implications of Russia’s withdrawal of peacekeepers from Karabakh. Up to 1% cashback when shopping on Wildberries with IDBank cards IDBank is launching an exclusive campaign on Wildberries for online shopping enthusiasts. |