Alarming water levels: What risk of flooding is looming on the Baltic Sea today?

Alarming water levels: What risk of flooding is looming on the Baltic Sea today?

Water levels on the Baltic Sea are a topic that is of interest not only to experts, but also to residents on the coast. Today, June 25, 2025, the current situation in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is causing a lot of interest. The water levels recorded at various measuring stations such as Wismar, Warnemünde and Stralsund play a crucial role in the safety of coastal residents. According to the Baltic Sea newspaper The terms “mean low water” (MNW) and “mean high water” (MHW) were explained, which are important for classifying the water levels.

The average low water in Warnemünde is 407 cm and the average high water is 617 cm, each measured over a period of ten years. Historically, the highest flood level in Warnemünde was documented at 770 cm on November 13, 1872. A look into the deepest past shows that 332 cm was recorded as the lowest water level on October 18, 1967.

Storm surges in the Baltic Sea

Storm surges take different forms on the Baltic Sea coast. The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency provides information about monthly water level reports, which not only provide an overview of high and low water levels, but also monitor water temperatures. Even small increases in water levels, combined with strong winds that are considered onshore, can lead to storm surges.

The different storm surge classes divide the phenomenon into storm surges, medium storm surges, severe storm surges and very severe storm surges, which can rise to over 2.00 m. An extreme flood experienced last October resulted in damage amounting to an impressive 56 million euros, with the city of Sassnitz needing around 42 million euros alone to restore the infrastructure. In addition, there will be 6 million euros for compensatory measures for the loss of sand on beaches and dunes.

Long-term evaluation and risks

As the Federal Environment Agency explained, historical flood levels show a changing trend development when viewed cyclically. The storm surges that often occur in the cold season are not only a natural hazard, but are also closely linked to climate change, which is causing sea levels to rise. Such changes could lead to additional financial burdens in the future, even if the frequency of storm surges does not necessarily increase.

Overall, it can be said that monitoring water levels in the Baltic Sea is not only essential for the current safety of coastal residents, but also for planning measures against future storm surges. The forecasts and reports from the responsible institutions are indispensable tools for better countering the risk of natural hazards.