Flooding affects us all—let’s be prepared together
Heavy rainfall, overloaded waterways, and localized flooding can lead to flooding at any time—even at company locations. The events of September 2024 demonstrated how important it is to be well-prepared: evacuations, power outages, and operational disruptions affected numerous locations and employees.
To ensure that we can respond quickly and safely in an emergency, this page provides key information:
- a concise FAQ covering the most important questions and answers about flood prevention, what to do in an emergency, and restoring operations,
- as well as a video that explains the causes and effects of flooding and shows how you can prepare—both professionally and personally.
Everyone can do their part to minimize risks and ensure smooth operations—through vigilance, preparation, and clear communication.
FAQ
Flooding refers to the uncontrolled overflow of water from bodies of water or due to overloaded drainage systems. Causes include, among others, prolonged rain, heavy rainfall, snowmelt, impervious surfaces, defective or overloaded sewer systems, and backflow from wastewater systems. In September 2024, extreme weather conditions with record rainfall led to massive flooding in Austria.
REWE locations are at varying levels of risk depending on their geographic location. Stores, logistics centers, and office buildings in flood-prone areas (e.g., near rivers, low-lying areas, or poorly drained areas) are particularly at risk. Risks exist for infrastructure, warehouses, sales areas, access roads, and technical facilities, as well as disruptions to delivery capabilities and operational processes and threats to the safety of employees and customers.
REWE has installed structural protective measures, such as mobile flood protection systems, pumping systems, and backflow valves, in areas at particularly high risk. In addition, there are emergency plans in place for logistics, as well as guidelines for stores regarding preventive and reactive measures.
Use thehttps://www.hora.gv.atplatform to check whether your workplace or place of residence is at risk from flooding, mudslides, or avalanches.
Yes. Information is provided by Geosphere Austria, local authorities, Radio Ö3, and internal channels such as the RENATE app, the intranet, and email.
In the event of a flood, evacuation, securing of entrances, and shutdown of electrical systems may be necessary. These measures are site-specific and are coordinated by the respective managers.
These vary by location and are communicated by local authorities.
They coordinate the evacuation, secure the infrastructure, report status updates to the crisis management team, and document the measures taken. They serve as the primary points of contact for employees and local authorities.
Communication takes place through a multi-tiered system: the RENATE app, the intranet, email, and social media. The corporate communications department coordinates internal and external information. In addition, key personnel are equipped with satellite phones, and our warehouse locations are equipped with an independent radio communication system.
Once the authorities have given the go-ahead, operations will resume. Repair crews and technical teams will be deployed to repair the damage. Supply security will be ensured through redistribution and additional deliveries.
Claims are handled by the Insurance and Risk Management department. All claims must be documented and reported.
Check in with your manager. You can support colleagues in affected areas—for example, by working longer shifts or helping out at affected stores.
Talk to your manager early on to coordinate your involvement with your role at work. This will ensure that your commitment is supported without jeopardizing operations.
Prepare an emergency kit with documents, medication, water, and a flashlight. Agree with your family on meeting places and ways to communicate in case of an emergency. For more information, visit https://zivilschutz.at/
Useful websites for more information:
- HORA
On HORA, you’ll find an interactive map that shows whether your home or workplace is at risk from flooding, mudslides, or other natural hazards. - Austrian Civil Protection Association – Floods
The Civil Protection Association offers comprehensive information on private flood prevention, including tips on how to behave before, during and after a flood. - Ö3 Traffic Service
The Ö3 Traffic Service provides up-to-date information on road closures, traffic delays, and detours—especially helpful during floods. - Geosphere
Geosphere provides up-to-date weather data, severe weather alerts, and forecasts that help assess flood risks. - eHYD
On eHYD, you’ll find real-time data on water levels, precipitation, and discharge volumes for Austrian water bodies—essential for assessing flood situations.