One piece of misinformation circulating is that Poland does not use the knowledge produced by the Copernicus program. In response, the prime minister, Donald Tusk, stated on Wednesday that national institutes, with the support of EU specialists, have carefully analyzed the European Commission warnings. He emphasized that the forecasts issued for the region were variable and that Copernicus data are actively used to inform risk assessments and crisis planning across the country.
EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič explained in a debate in the European Parliament that, since September 10, the European Commission has issued warnings to member states through the European Flood Awareness System, which functions within the Copernicus satellite framework. This system provides timely alerts intended to help countries prepare for potential flood events and coordinate response efforts.
On Tuesday evening, Tusk referred to growing accusations that Poland failed to react adequately to the alarm. He underscored the ongoing collaboration between Polish authorities and EU experts, noting that the warnings have been examined in detail and that the country has been actively aligning its response with EU guidance.
There has been a claim that the country does not use Copernicus data. He stressed that this assertion is inaccurate and highlighted the cooperation between national institutes and EU specialists as an exemplary model. The warnings from the European Commission are being thoroughly reviewed to support national risk assessments and crisis planning.
The prognosis highlighted by the warnings showed variability, reflecting the shifting nature of weather patterns and the limitations of forecasting models. Officials pointed out that predictions can differ as new data arrive and models are refined, which is why constant analysis and cross-border collaboration are essential for accurate situational awareness.
Declaration of September 13
The head of government also addressed criticism of his September 13 statement, stating that the forecasted scenarios were not meant to be alarmist. He explained that even if the predictions appear alarming, mobilization is necessary because there is little doubt that dramatic events can occur. The aim is to ensure readiness rather than create unnecessary panic.
He emphasized that assessing events after they occur is not productive and that hindsight often makes people seem wiser. The focus is on proactive preparedness and timely decision-making to protect communities when danger looms.
Authorities noted that crisis staff and contingency activities were prepared well in advance, not only in Wrocław but across multiple regions, to ensure a swift, coordinated response if a severe flood scenario materializes. The aim has been to reinforce resilience at national and local levels through proactive planning, resource mobilization, and interagency cooperation.
These developments reflect ongoing efforts to translate Copernicus data and EU advisories into practical, real-world actions that safeguard lives and property while maintaining clear communication with the public.