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Water crisis in Austria: Groundwater levels are alarmingly low!
BMLUK monthly report: Austria's water balance in October 2025 is too dry; Precipitation and groundwater levels critical.
Water crisis in Austria: Groundwater levels are alarmingly low!
In October 2025, Austria's water balance is showing alarming trends: According to the BMLUK's monthly report, the month was slightly cooler compared to previous months with an average temperature of 6.8 °C, which is almost the same as the long-term average. At the same time, however, rainfall amounts were around 20% below average, which led to a tense situation, particularly in the west, south and northeast of the country. This data was published on November 7, 2025 and shows a long-term rainfall deficit across large parts of Austria over the last twelve months.
The water level of Lake Neusiedl is particularly serious, with the level being around 10 cm below the long-term average. Low to very low discharge values were documented in more than half of the measuring points in Austria. The report also shows that about half of monitoring sites face similar concerns regarding groundwater levels. The declines are particularly noticeable in Carinthia, where groundwater levels continue to fall.
Water reserves and future forecasts
The coming weeks leave little hope for improvement. Experts expect only isolated and mostly light rainfall. A southwesterly flow will bring mild temperatures, but hardly any rain, and snow will only fall at medium and higher altitudes. A significant increase in groundwater levels will not be in sight until mid-December. BMLUK emphasizes the need for a more conscious use of water.
Water Minister Norbert Totschnig emphasizes the importance of water retention measures and soil protection. Projects like Land4Climate are intended to help stabilize the situation and strengthen groundwater resources.
Past water balance situation
Elsewhere, World Economic Forum President Borge Brende highlights worrying developments in the global economy. He fears that there are three possible financial bubbles in the current situation: the crypto bubble, the AI bubble (artificial intelligence) and the debt bubble. Borge Brende pointed out that governments have not been so heavily indebted since 1945.
These developments can also have repercussions for the water industry, as an increasingly tense economic situation can often lead to cuts in investments in important infrastructure projects.
In summary, it can be said that not only Austria's water balance, but also the global financial risks show an urgent need for action. A simultaneous consideration of these two problem areas could be crucial for the future stability of water resources in Austria and beyond. The reporting of the BMLUK and the advice from experts is of great relevance in this context.