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Alarm on the Baltic Sea: The risk of flooding due to storm surges is growing!
Ostholstein: Current flood warnings and water levels on the Baltic Sea on June 29, 2025 - important rules of conduct and data.
Alarm on the Baltic Sea: The risk of flooding due to storm surges is growing!
On June 29th, 2025 the weather in Germany will cause excitement. Storm surges, which occur several times a year, are a hot topic, especially on the Baltic Sea. The Kiel News reports that a total of five storm surges were recorded between July 2022 and June 2023. In comparison, there were seven in the 2021/2022 season. Low water events, on the other hand, are less frequent; last season there were only two, while the year before that there were four.
The classification of storm surges is of great importance: A normal storm surge is between 1.00 and 1.25 meters above the mean water level. Severe storm surges, which pose far more danger to coastal regions, reach heights of up to 2.00 meters. The highest known water levels on the Baltic Sea, such as the highest flood level (HHW) of 797 cm, were recorded as early as 1872.
Current flood warnings
In the current situation, residents and visitors to the Baltic Sea coast are urgently warned. Flood warnings are issued through cooperation between federal, state and various local authorities. Both police forces and the fire department are actively involved in monitoring. The communication channels for these warnings are diverse: from radio to sirens to social media, there are many ways to stay informed like that star reported.
With the heavy rains since Friday, which led to heavy flooding in some parts of southern Germany - for example 130 liters of rain in Kißlegg - the water levels have risen extremely in some regions. These amounts partly correspond to the monthly average and can contribute to further aggravating the flood situation.
Rules of conduct in an emergency
In the event of a storm surge, prepared measures are crucial. Authorities advise turning off electricity and gas, moving personal belongings to safety and equipping yourself with a battery-operated radio and flashlight. Stockpiles of food and drinking water should be stocked and it is advisable to avoid riparian areas. Escape routes should also be planned in advance.
The effects of climate change are another story. According to that Federal Environment Agency Average water levels will rise, potentially increasing the intensity of storm surges. This development poses a major threat to coastal regions as strong winds push water towards the coast. Historical data shows that storm surges have been documented for almost 2,000 years and the worst disasters have sometimes claimed several lives.
In summary, it should be noted that both precautionary measures and vigilant behavior in the event of impending storm surges are essential. The weather situation presents us with serious challenges that need to be overcome.