Holding back the Prague river

PRAGUE - Authorities reinforced the main river in Prague as rising waters threatened to flood low-lying parts of the historic city, including its zoo.

Barriers were erected to prevent water spilling into streets, and metal walls were to be erected at the medieval Kampa district below the 14th century Charles Bridge.

"It is necessary to secure this part of the city as soon as possible due to the growing water flow in the Vltava river in Prague," Prague City Council said.

Rivers across the central European country were rising fast after rain and unusually warm weather melted deep snow which fell over the winter.

The water flowing into Prague was three times the average for the northern spring, and was estimated to rise by another 75 per cent in the coming days. Weather forecasters said more rain was due.

- REUTERS