Alarm in Vorarlberg: Sudden water climb threatens bathers!

Alarm in Vorarlberg: Sudden water climb threatens bathers!

Vorarlberg, Österreich - Today, on June 17, 2025, the Illwerke VKW warn of sudden water level increases in the rivers in Vorarlberg. This danger particularly affects bathers and relaxation seekers who linger on the river banks. Several reports underline that dry places on gravel banks can be flooded within a short time. These risks are often underestimated by recreational athletes and bathers. The water masses can increase without a recognizable warning, which makes the situation particularly threatening.

The sudden levels of the level are directly related to the operation of hydropower plants. When the power requirement increases, these larger amounts of water release the rivers, which leads to a drastic increase in water levels. According to the information from vorarlberg.orf.at, the water levels can increase rapidly, which means that stays in endangered areas should be avoided. The exact times of the water levies are not predictable and can occur up to ten times a day.

warnings and security measures

In order to inform the population about the impending danger, the Illwerke VKW have placed numerous warning signs at known danger spots at the rivers. Walter Boch, manager of the Bregenzerwald and Oberland power plants, appeals to parents to not leave their children unattended while swimming in rivers. Children, adolescents and families often use these waters as bathing spots or leisure rooms, which is why it is particularly important to clarify these groups about the risks.

Even if the regulations are observed, there is the possibility of a rapid water increase. This shows the connection between the power plant and the water levels in the regional streams and rivers. Another focus should be on the warnings to be taken seriously to ensure the safety of all users.

The role of hydropower

The use of hydropower plays a crucial role in energy production in Vorarlberg. Hydropower plants use the movement and potential energy of the water to generate energy. In mountainous landscapes with plenty of precipitation, these power plants are particularly effective. A distinction is made between running hydropower plants that use the current amounts of water, and storage power plants that store water for times of higher electricity requirements. According to Federal Environment Agency, hydropower has a share of around 15% in the global power supply.

The significant effects of hydropower use on water ecology are also an important topic. The interruption of biological continuity for hiking fish and the fatal injuries caused by turbines show the ecological dilemma. Measures to reduce these environmental impacts, such as fish, and descent aids, are necessary to ensure the balance between energy production and nature conservation.