29.07.2019: Through the flood area

Before today's stage, everyone had respect. In the region to be crossed (around Tulun), there was a flood catastrophe 4 weeks ago, which was also reported on German television. It was known that the village is still extensively under water and the only road can be blocked. Due to the heavy rain in the last few days, the situation has worsened again. But since there was no detour or way back, the bus had to continue and try it. We were lucky and the key point, a bridge, was open and passable. (Today we learned that the bridge has now been washed away. Unbelievable.) It was shocking to see that the flood washed away about 9000 houses. It is rumored that the disaster was caused by people. Further north, there are massive forest fires, so it has been decided to create artificial rain by airplane and chemicals. The rain then fell so heavily that a dike could no longer withstand the water masses.

Our hotel in the destination Nishneudinsk was also damaged by the flood. At first it was said that there was no water supply. At least they managed to fix the toilet flush. So we were all sent to the room with a canister of water to at least be able to wash ourselves a little. The hotel was run down and dirty. The night was only bearable with a vodka coma.

In the restaurant during dinner a group of older ladies was also celebrating a birthday. They turned out to be true party animals. Everyone, especially our gentlemen, had to join them on the dance floor. It was totally funny and made us forget the prospect of a terrible overnight stay a little bit.