Flood risk on the Baltic Sea: Current levels and warnings!

On December 27, 2024, the situation on the coasts of North and Baltic Sea concerns the public attention. Several storm floods increase the water levels in the affected regions. According to KN-Online.de On the Baltic Sea. The Federal Sea shipping and hydrography office reported a total of five storm surges last season from July 2022 to June 2023, while in the 2021/2022 season even seven storm surges were recorded.

low water events have also been documented. In the 2022/2023 season there were two low water events, while four such events were registered in the previous season. Storm floods are divided into four categories: from the normal storm surge (1.00 to 1.25 meters above the middle water level) to the very heavy storm surge (over 2.00 meters).

Current water levels in Schleswig-Holstein

Current measurements show different water levels in the region. The following values ​​were determined on December 26, 2024:

• Kiel-Holtenau: Middle water level (MW) 504 cm
• Sturgeon: 604 cm
• Elbe: 620 cm
• North Sea: 586 cm
• Baltic Sea: 503 cm

The flood warnings in Germany are coordinated by the federal government, the states, districts as well as the police and fire brigade. The flood centers in every federal state are active and inform the population about various channels such as radio, television and digital platforms.

rules of conduct in storm surge

In the case of impending storm surges, certain rules of conduct must be observed that are intended to increase the protection of the population. This includes the parking of electricity and gas, creating food and drinking water supplies as well as holding battery radios and flashlights. In addition, it is advisable to avoid bank areas and to look for protection on higher floors if necessary.

In addition to the storm surges, there are numerous measurements to the water levels of different rivers and channels in Schleswig-Holstein. For example, on December 26, 2024, the water level of the Krückau was measured to 634 cm and that of the eider to 470 cm, as hsi-sh.de . These values ​​illustrate the sometimes critical situation in the region and the need to constantly observe the water levels.