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Elbe on the upswing: Rain brings hope after weeks of drought!
After weeks of drought, the levels of the Elbe in Saxony are rising thanks to forecast rainfall. Current measurements and background information.
Elbe on the upswing: Rain brings hope after weeks of drought!
After weeks of drought, the situation on the Elbe could finally ease. Today, July 19, 2025, a low pressure complex is bringing fresh, moist air from the southwest to Saxony, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). These weather changes raise hopes that the water levels of the Elbe could rise in the coming days, as local showers and thunderstorms may also bring heavy rainfall.
Looking at the latest water levels, it can be seen that the Elbe in Dresden was measured at over 70 centimeters on Saturday afternoon, which, however, still corresponds to the low water level. If you compare the values, this is an increase compared to the beginning of July, when the water level fell to a record low of just 58 centimeters.
Current water levels along the Elbe
The water levels of the Elbe over the last few days have shown some interesting fluctuations. Here is an overview of the water levels:
| City | 15.07. | 16.07. | 17.07. | 18.07. | 19.07. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schoena | 88 (+5) | 92 (+4) | 80 (-12) | 77 (-3) | 103 (+26) |
| Dresden | 71 (-1) | 71 (+/-0) | 85 (+14) | 83 (-2) | 68 (-15) |
| Torgau | 56 (+12) | 57 (+1) | 57 (+/-0) | 69 (+12) | 66 (-3) |
| Wittenberg | 73 (+1) | 81 (+8) | 83 (+2) | 84 (+1) | 90 (+6) |
| Dessau | 63 (-3) | 70 (+7) | 71 (+1) | 72 (+1) | 78 (+6) |
Fortunately, the White Fleet's trips are picking up speed again in Dresden. After the forced break due to low water levels, castle trips from Dresden to Pillnitz are now being offered again. Nautical director Jochen Haubold emphasizes that the current water level makes it possible to pass through flatter areas at Laubegast. This could also be a signal for further approval of city trips in Dresden and connections to Saxon Switzerland.
Looking into the future
Despite the current low water situation, there is bright news. The announced rains could improve the situation and mean that other routes can soon be back in operation. The weather forecasts also indicate that further showers and local thunderstorms could benefit water levels.
While the water levels are initially below average, the upcoming change in the weather could stabilize the Elbe in the long term. Citizens and the tourism industry in the region are optimistic about the future, hoping that the rain will come just right - not too much, but not too little either!
For current information about water levels, interested citizens can visit the website ELWIS and Environment Saxony visit. Here you will always find updated data and further information on the flood situation.