St. Mary Magdalene's flood, a catastrophic natural disaster, occurred during a period of extreme meteorological conditions in central Europe. Heavy and sustained rainfall fell over several days, leading to unprecedented flooding of the Danube River and its tributaries. This event took place during the summer of 1342, affecting numerous towns and cities across what is now modern-day Austria, the Czech Republic, and parts of Germany. The rising waters overwhelmed flood defenses, inundating low-lying areas and increasing the danger to local populations. As the floodwaters swept through, many communities saw their homes and farmland washed away. Displacement of residents was widespread, with families forced into makeshift shelters or fleeing to higher ground. The impact was particularly severe in cities such as Prague and Vienna, where critical infrastructure suffered immense damage. The chaos prompted local authorities to mobilize resources for disaster relief, with citizens collaborating to assist those most affected. The event’s timing—coinciding with the feast of St. Mary Magdalene—led to its enduring name, forever linking the tragedy to the saint’s commemoration.In the aftermath, the flood influenced river management practices and led to discussions about urban planning regarding watercourses. The extent of destruction highlighted vulnerabilities within local economies that heavily relied on agriculture, as crops were either destroyed or rendered unusable. Long-term effects included shifts in settlement patterns, as some populations relocated permanently to avoid future dangers posed by similar disasters.