Lakes and rivers in central Swiss cantons such as Bern and Lucerne have reached dangerous levels, and more rain is forecast. Water levels on Lake Thun, Lake Biel and in the city of Bern are expected to significantly exceed flood limits.

Flooding around Lake Biel was “unavoidable”, according to the authorities on Thursday, who said the situation could be similar to the "flood of the century" in 2005. On Thursday Lake Lucerne exceeded flood level 5, the highest level. If the water rises another 13cm, the centre of Lucerne will be flooded.