Danger of flooding on the Baltic Sea: Current water levels and warnings!

Danger of flooding on the Baltic Sea: Current water levels and warnings!

The Baltic Sea, also known as the “Baltic Sea,” is a region that borders many countries, including Germany, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Russia, Finland, Sweden and Denmark. On June 28, 2025, a look at the current water levels will be taken at the measuring stations in the Bay of Lübeck. This information is particularly relevant as flood warnings in Schleswig-Holstein and neighboring areas are always on the agenda. Loud LN Online There are information about water levels in Heiligenhafen, Marienleuchte (Fehmarn), Neustadt (Ostholstein) and Wismar, although the exact current data is not provided.

In Neustadt the standard values ​​are defined as follows: The average low water level (MNW) is 386 cm, while the mean high water level (MHW) is 630 cm. The highest flood level (HHW) of 782 cm, which was recorded on November 13, 1872, is particularly historic. An unforgettable date when you consider that this year saw the worst storm surge in German Baltic Sea history, which had devastating effects - from flooding to many victims.

Flood warnings and levels

To ensure that such disasters are recognized as quickly as possible, there are different flood warning levels that are defined in Lower Saxony. Alert level 1 signals a small flood, while alert level 4 indicates a very large flood. Warnings are issued by various institutions, such as federal, state, district as well as local police and fire departments. Among the warning channels, radio, television and warning apps are particularly important for the population.

The hydrological situation on the German Baltic Sea coast is analyzed monthly BSH reported. These reports contain information about water levels, water temperatures, and comparisons to historical data. In the context of the latter, there is also evidence of storm surge events, such as the storm surge of 1872, which is considered one of the most severe of its kind. Storms, even modern ones, bring with them great potential for danger. It wasn't until October 2023 that a severe easterly storm occurred that caused damage to the coast. The warning situation was tightened from October 17th, with calls for maximum levels of 1 to 2 meters above the mean water level in the Bay of Kiel and Lübeck.

The look into the future

A central point in the discussion about floods and storm surges is the influence of climate change. According to that DWD Both coastal defense measures and early warning technology have improved enormously since the devastating events of 1872. Nevertheless, the challenge remains to take future developments and the associated risks into account. Citing the storm surge of 1872 and its devastating impact, we must recognize that storms and storm surges continue to pose a threat that should not be taken lightly.