Danger of flooding on the Elbe: Wittenberge needs to be on guard!

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Find out more about the current water level of the Elbe in Wittenberge and the flood warning levels on June 20th, 2025.

Erfahren Sie mehr über den aktuellen Wasserstand der Elbe in Wittenberge und die Hochwasserwarnstufen am 20.06.2025.
Find out more about the current water level of the Elbe in Wittenberge and the flood warning levels on June 20th, 2025.

Danger of flooding on the Elbe: Wittenberge needs to be on guard!

Today, June 20, 2025, the situation on the Elbe near Wittenberge is quite tense. The river landscape, which has been repeatedly plagued by floods in recent decades - especially in 2002 and 2013 - is once again the focus of attention. The city administration has urgently called for the authorities' warnings to be taken seriously, as the water level of the Elbe is constantly rising. Martin Ferch from the city of Wittenberge emphasizes how important it is to follow current developments in order to be able to react in a timely manner to possible flood events. However, the exact water level is currently not known.

The water level figures are impressive: the highest flood level ever recorded was 785 cm in June 2013, while the lowest level was 45 cm on September 29, 1947. According to the information from ELWIS The water level in Wittenberge could rise above 610 cm today, the highest water level for shipping. The forecast for today shows values ​​in the range of 122 cm to over 135 cm, which influences the alert levels in Brandenburg accordingly.

Current warning levels

It is important to know the different flood warning levels communicated by the flood control center. Alert level 1 signals a small flood with the first signs of expansion, while alert level 4 indicates very large floods - and widespread flooding can occur. In the last few hours, levels have risen above alert levels 1 and 2, requiring increased vigilance. Residents should therefore be prepared that the parking lot at Nedwighafen may also be closed as soon as the water levels reach a critical value.

The Elbe Bridge in Wittenberge, curious as to how it shapes the landscape, is the longest of its kind in the region at 1,110 meters and was opened in 1978. The railway bridge, completed in 1987, with a clearance height of 6.09 meters, is also crucial for connecting the region. Since vehicles have to be towed away to secure property if necessary in the event of flooding, the authorities are optimally prepared, even if this has not yet been necessary.

Predictions and responsibility

The forecasts and level data provided by the environment of Saxony are clearly important for early warning systems. This data helps to identify potential flood situations at an early stage and to take appropriate measures. Nevertheless, this is unchecked raw data, which is why increased vigilance is always required in flood-prone areas.

The entire region is prepared to respond quickly should flooding occur. Crisis teams decide on evacuations and further measures. The warning channels are diverse - from radio and television to sirens and social media, all of which contribute to safely informing the population.

The situation on the Elbe remains critical. It is advisable to exercise particular caution in the next few days and hours and to always keep an eye on the latest information. In order to confront the water, cooperation between the authorities and residents is essential.