Flood chaos on the Baltic Sea: Current levels at a glance!
Flood chaos on the Baltic Sea: Current levels at a glance!
The weather in the coastal regions of the Baltic Sea remains a hot topic, especially when it comes to the water levels and storm surges. Today, on June 29, 2025, we take a look at the current developments in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which employ the residents and the responsible authorities. Experts warn that upcoming storm surges, especially in connection with increasing global warming, could become increasingly dangerous.
As reported by the Ostsee newspaper, the levels at various measuring stations such as Wismar, Warnemünde and Greifswald are of great importance. The average value for the medium low water (MNW) in Warnemünde is 407 cm, while the middle flood (MHW) is 617 cm. The highest flood already ever measured in Warnemünde was documented on November 13, 1872 with 770 cm, while the lowest status was 332 cm on October 18, 1967. Such extreme values show the broad tensions and challenges with which the region is faced with extreme weather events.
storm floods and their classification
storm surges are divided into different classes, depending on how high the water level is above the middle water level. There are four categories: a storm surge begins from 1.00 to 1.25 m above the middle water level, while very heavy storm surges above 2.00 m are measured. The ends in the past few months and years shows that there are often storm surges on the Baltic Sea coast, which increase particularly in the winter half -year. This natural risk must be taken seriously because it can lead to great damage.
Last season, which ran from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, five storm surges were recorded. These flood events can cause immense damage to the coastal infrastructure. For example, the city of Sassnitz reported a total damage of around 56 million euros after a severe storm surge in October 2024. Of this amount, around 42 million euros are necessary to restore the infrastructure, while 6 million euros are planned for the compensation measures for sandworthiness on beaches.
The warning systems
How do you know when a storm surge threatens? The flood centers and various manufacturing organs play a crucial role here. Warnings are made via numerous channels, including radio, television, speaker cars, sirens and even social media. These measures are important to inform the population in good time and take the necessary protective measures.
The Federal Government has emphasized that constant monitoring and preparations are necessary to react to such natural events. Despite all these measures, the risk of flooding remains high. Factors such as wind intensity, local conditions and the measures of flood protection are crucial for the potential future damage.
an outlook in the future
With the increase in sea level through climate change, it can be expected that storm surges could occur more frequently and more intensely. The water level could be higher in the long term, which conversely means that more damage in the coastal regions could occur, although the number of events does not necessarily have to increase. Therefore, preventive planning for coastal protection measures is essential so that the affected residents remain well protected.
Overall, the topic of storm floods on the Baltic Sea coast remains of great importance, and it is crucial that the population and the authorities cooperate with each other in order to meet the challenges of the future. The information provided underline the need for constant vigilance and responsible planning in order to arm the coastal regions for upcoming challenges.
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| Ort | Rostock, Deutschland |
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