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Danger of storm surges: Baltic Sea level exceeds alarm limit in Schleswig-Holstein!
Find out the current water levels and storm surge warnings for Kiel and the Baltic Sea on August 25th, 2025 - important information for residents.
Danger of storm surges: Baltic Sea level exceeds alarm limit in Schleswig-Holstein!
Storm surges are not uncommon on the Baltic Sea. Today, on August 25, 2025, the water levels are still in the public eye. The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency reports that a total of five storm surges were recorded in the last season from July 2022 to June 2023. Last year there were even seven. This natural event clearly shows how dynamic and challenging the conditions on the German Baltic Sea coast are. There were also only two low water events for the 2022/2023 season, while there were four last year. The differences highlight the fluctuations that staff and residents must deal with while maintaining their safety.
The classification on the Baltic Sea coast shows how high the storm surges can actually get. The individual classes range from a normal storm surge, which is 1.00 to 1.25 meters above the mean water level, to very severe storm surges, which climb over 2.00 meters. For Kiel-Holtenau, for example, the mean water level (MW) is between 504 and 626 cm, while the maximum water level (HHW) was an impressive 797 cm, as measured on November 13, 1872.
Water levels in comparison
Current water levels are available not only for the Baltic Sea, but also for various rivers in Schleswig-Holstein. The water levels are:
- Krückau: 606 cm
- Stör: 558 cm
- Elbe: 649 cm
- Eider: 468 cm
These numbers come from hsi-sh.de, which is responsible for precise data about water levels in the region. The difference in levels shows how much the weather conditions and geography of Schleswig-Holstein can vary.
Behavior during storm surges
If there is a risk of storm surges, there are some rules of conduct to follow to ensure safety. It is important to turn off the electricity and gas and move important personal items to higher floors. A battery-operated radio and supplies of food and drinking water should also be available. Shore areas should be avoided at all costs during such events and it is advisable to always have hand luggage ready for possible evacuation.
In Germany, water level warnings are issued via various channels, including radio, television, warning apps and social media. In particular, the Severe Weather Center ensures that the population is warned in good time. Advance warnings can be issued in yellow up to 48 hours before a possible storm, while acute warnings, which confirm the actual arrival, are classified in orange to purple, depending on the severity of the storm.
The possibility of natural forces such as storm surges or heavy rainfall poses challenges for people on the Baltic Sea coast, but comprehensive preparedness, supported by warning systems and well-planned behavior, ensures that the community is prepared and can protect itself as best as possible. Stay informed and safe when the weather strikes.