Flood alarm on the Baltic Sea: Storm surges endanger coastal towns!

Flood alarm on the Baltic Sea: Storm surges endanger coastal towns!

Storm surges on the Baltic Sea are a well-known phenomenon that occur regularly between October and April. Reported looking back on October 25, 2025 kn online that the years 2022 and 2023 brought several storm surges. A total of five such events were recorded in the period from July 2022 to June 2023, while the 2021/2022 season even recorded seven storm surges.

But storm surges are not the only challenges facing the region. There have also been low water events in recent years, occurring two times in the 2022/2023 fiscal year and four times in the previous season. These fluctuations in water levels can pose a challenge for both residents and shipping traffic. The water levels on the Baltic Sea are regularly monitored and precisely documented by the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency, including the values ​​at the Kiel-Holtenau water gauge station.

Water levels in detail

The current values ​​are crucial for a reliable flood and storm surge forecast. At Kiel-Holtenau, the average water level is 504 cm, while the highest flood level since 1872 was 797 cm. In the past it has been shown that storm surges in Germany occur particularly frequently in the winter months, which increases the need for effective warning systems.

The flood warnings are coordinated by various authorities. Federal, state, district, police and fire departments are active when dangerous water levels are reached. The flood control center ensures that important information is disseminated through various channels such as radio, television, loudspeakers and even social media in order to warn and protect the population in a timely manner.

Rules of conduct

In such emergency situations, it is crucial to follow the correct rules of conduct. This includes turning off electricity and gas, securing personal belongings and preparing for a possible evacuation. A battery-operated radio and flashlight should be available, while supplies of food and drinking water should also be stocked. People are advised to avoid flood areas and seek shelter on higher floors if necessary.

A look at the past also shows that the region has experienced the most severe storm surges in recent history. A storm surge in October 2023 caused enormous damage and presented the communities with major challenges. Several dikes broke and caused property damage amounting to three-digit millions, which makes the question of suitable coastal protection all the more urgent. While the Baltic Sea coast is only 30 percent protected by dikes, more emphasis is placed on comprehensive security in the Nordic region.

Climate research, supported by reports from the IPCC, warns of sea level rise of up to 1.8 meters by 2100. This could increase the likelihood of severe storm surges, posing a risk not only to residents, but also to the entire infrastructure. It is therefore important to continually evaluate coastal protection measures and adapt them if necessary in order to protect the population.

In summary, the dynamic situation on the Baltic Sea is both a challenge and a responsibility for the responsible authorities and local residents. In the future, a good knack for coastal protection will be needed in order to cope with constantly changing conditions. The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency will continue to provide valuable data to precisely monitor the hydrological situation and water levels in the Baltic Sea.

A sustainable solution and consistent protection are essential to minimize the impact of future storm surges and to preserve coastal regions. Other countries, such as the Netherlands, also show how important investments in flood protection can be after catastrophic events. Protection against storm surges requires creativity, commitment and a holistic view of the needs of the population and nature.