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Danger of flooding in Lower Saxony: thaw causes rivers to overflow!
In Lower Saxony, water levels are rising due to thaw. Flood warnings affect several regions.
Danger of flooding in Lower Saxony: thaw causes rivers to overflow!
There is currently a clear warning in Lower Saxony: Because of the thaw, water levels are rising sharply in many areas. The Lower Saxony State Office for Water Management, Coastal and Nature Conservation (NLWKN) warns urgently about floods. The rivers Schwinge, Aue and Lune are particularly affected, where the first and second reporting levels have already been exceeded. This means that agricultural areas are at risk of being under water.
There is currently a considerable blanket of snow in many regions of Lower Saxony, especially in the Harz Mountains, which is now melting. Up to 40 cm of snow was measured there, which further adds to the situation. The recent rainfall and milder temperatures have increased the risk of flooding, especially in the north and southeast of the state.
Current situation and effects
The freezing wet conditions made the roads slippery on Wednesday evening and Thursday night, which has already resulted in a number of accidents. The challenging situation is exacerbated because around three percent of Lower Saxony's area is considered a flood risk area. The situation is particularly tense in the Celle district.
Water levels are expected to continue rising in the coming days. The flood-prone area covers around 72% of the area of Lower Saxony, which is also reflected in the forecasts Flood forecast center (HWVZ) reflects. This facility, which has been in existence since 2009, not only provides accurate water level forecasts, but also important information about the flood situation so that defensive measures can be initiated quickly.
Function of the flood forecast center
The HWVZ has the task of producing discharge and water level forecasts for river gauges. This information not only reaches districts and municipalities, but is also distributed via relevant apps such as NINA and KATWARN. Collaboration with various institutions, including the German Weather Service, is essential for precise data collection.
Although forecasts can be accurate for a few days in advance, it should be noted that as the time period increases, there is also a lack of uncertainty. The HWVZ regularly updates warning reports and water level forecasts to ensure an early warning system for floods.
The situation in Lower Saxony remains dynamic. As the thaw progresses, residents, farmers and all those affected must remain vigilant. A good hand in dealing with the unexpected weather influences is now required.