Storm floods: Current levels on the Baltic Sea for Kiel and the surrounding area

Storm floods: Current levels on the Baltic Sea for Kiel and the surrounding area

Kiel/Eckernförde/Fehmarn. According to the surveys of the Federal Office for Sea shipping and hydrography, a total of five storm surges were registered in the period from July 2022 to June 2023. In the previous season, 2021/2022, there were even seven. These natural events are not only a seasonal spectacle, but also bring significant level changes that have to be carefully persecuted by the people in the region.

The levels, especially in critical places such as the Kiel Bay, Eckernförde and other municipalities of the Baltic Sea coast, fluctuate strongly and are crucial for planning and security in the region. The recently recorded values indicate increased vigilance in order to be able to warn early if there are flooding.

Current flood warnings in Schleswig-Holstein

In every federal state, there are special flood registrations that are responsible for the safety of the population. Your goal is to warn in time when the water levels reach questionable heights. Current information on this is available via the cross -border flood portal (LHP), where developments can be followed in real time. Various institutions play a role in the publication of the warnings, including the flood centers, police and fire brigade.

The warnings can be spread through different channels. The Federal Office for Population Protection and Disaster Aid (BBK) lists many information channels, including radio, television, websites of local newspapers and social media. These channels are important to ensure popular and quick information spread.

classification of storm floods

storm floods on the Baltic Sea coast are divided into four classes, depending on their height above the middle water level:

• "Storm flood": 1.00 to 1.25 meters
• "Middle Storm Flood": 1.25 to 1.50 meters
• "Severe Sturmflut": 1.50 to 2.00 meters
• "Very heavy storm flood": over 2.00 meters

These classifications are of great importance, especially for coastal protection measures and to give the population precisely information about the expected risk. The highest flood ever measured on the Baltic Sea near Kiel-Holtenau reached a value of 797 centimeters and was found on November 13, 1872.

behavior in the event of a storm surge

In the event of an impending flood, preventive measures are crucial. There are some simple basic rules that can increase security:

• know where electricity and gas can be parked in order to avoid possible dangers.
• Bring important personal things to safe places on higher floors.
• Have a battery-operated radio and a flashlight in order to remain informed in the event of a power failure.
• Create food and drinking water reserves, in case the tide takes longer.
• Prepare yourself for evacuations and inform your neighbors about the situation.

The useful tips should help to prepare for a storm surge and minimize the risks. In view of the constantly changing weather conditions, it is advisable to regularly consult information about the levels in the region.