Flood alarm in Rinteln: water levels are rising dramatically!

On January 10, 2025, local authorities reported an increase in water levels on the Weser in Rinteln, encouraging citizens to exercise caution. The Weser, which comes from the rivers Werra and Fulda near Hann. Münden is created and flows through places like Hameln and Bremen, which also has an impact on the situation in Rinteln. Current flood warnings are active in Lower Saxony as water levels in the region could become critical.

The current water levels in Rinteln show that the mean low water level (MNW) for the Weser is 121 cm and the mean high water level (MHW) is 563 cm. The highest flood level (HHW) that has been measured to date was 738 cm in February 1946. At a water level of 486 cm, the area below Woolworth/Brückentor is flooded, while at 500 cm the Weser overflows its banks. Critical points that could be affected at higher water levels include Hartler Street and the Weseranger car park.

Flood warnings and citizen measures

The alarm levels for floods in Lower Saxony are clearly defined: Alarm level 1 signals small floods, while alarm level 4 indicates very large floods. Warnings are issued by institutions such as federal, state, district, police and fire departments via various channels, including radio and social media.
At the same time, a local press release reported on the rise in the levels of the Weser and Exter, predicting that the Weser could reach around 6.60 m at the Rinteln gauge between December 26th and 27th, 2023. The forecast from this point on is uncertain, but a further rise in levels is expected.

In preparation for possible flooding, the fire department filled sandbags and distributed them to the citizens of Exten. On December 24th, residents had the opportunity to fill sandbags themselves for their own precautions. The city administration appeals to citizens to follow current information on the city's website and social media channels, check backflow valves in basements and provide personal emergency equipment. It is also advised to clear endangered rooms early and to switch off electricity in areas that may be flooded.