Days of torrential rain have led to multiple rivers bursting their banks, resulting in six deaths in Poland, 16 deaths across Central Europe and thousands of people being forced to flee their homes.

In response, Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk announced at a press conference that around €234 million has been secured to support flood-affected areas and residents.

Tusk said: “After submitting a simple application to the regional authorities, everyone will receive emergency aid of 8,000 zloty from social assistance and 2,000 zloty in flood benefits.”

“Independently, based on a simple application… it will be possible to receive [two different kinds of aid of] up to 100,000 zloty (€23,405), and up to 200,000 zloty (€46,810) for the reconstruction of residential buildings,” he added.

This aid is available to residents affected by flooding in parts of the southwestern Lower Silesia and southern Opole and Silesia regions, where the government has declared a 30-day state of emergency.

Local authorities are responsible for processing requests for this assistance.