Hungarian PM says Budapest water levels decreasing

2013-06-10 48

Record water levels for the River Danube in Hungary's flood-stricken capital Budapest - though authorities believe the worst may now be over.

Officials worked through the night to reinforce dams and secure vital city points in the city.

Hundreds of volunteers also helped pile sandbags at key points along the river over the last two days.

Many residents were grateful that the worst appeared to have been avoided.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) BUDAPEST RESIDENT AND IT ENGINEER, ATTILA ZSATKU, SAYING:

"I think it was a one hundred years high this flood. I think it's ok, I think they are managing good."

Prime Minister Viktor Orban told a news briefing that the state of emergency would be over in the north and in Budapest by Wednesday.

He said defences would now shift to high-risks areas south of the capital.

More than 1,300 people have been forced to leave their homes in Hungary with 44 roads closed.

So far, officials, soldiers and thousands of