Red alert: Flood warnings on the Baltic Sea on September 19th, 2025!

Red alert: Flood warnings on the Baltic Sea on September 19th, 2025!

The storm surge season on the Baltic Sea has begun again. Current data shows that storm surges, which occur several times a year, pose a constant challenge to coastal regions. According to information from the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency, there were a total of five storm surges between July 2022 and June 2023, while seven were recorded in the 2021/2022 season. A trend can also be observed in terms of low water events: there were two low water events in the 2022/2023 season and four in the previous season.

Flood warnings are an important aspect of prevention. Not only the federal and state governments are responsible, but also the police and fire departments. A flood control center is active in every federal state and communicates via various channels - be it via radio and television, loudspeaker trucks or warning apps. Currently, the mean water level in Kiel-Holtenau is 504 cm, while the highest flood level ever measured has reached 797 cm.

The different storm surge classes

With regard to the storm surge classification, different categories can be identified: A storm surge occurs when the water moves between 1.00 and 1.25 meters above the mean water level. For a medium storm surge it is 1.25 to 1.50 meters, severe storm surges reach 1.50 to 2.00 meters and very severe storm surges exceed the 2.00 meter mark. The most severe storm surge recorded in the southwestern Baltic Sea had devastating consequences in November 1872, killing 271 people.

The water levels in the region are currently variable. For example, a water level of 697 cm was measured for the Krückau, while the water level on the Elbe is 640 cm and the North Sea is 538 cm. The water level in the Eider also shows an interesting development at 471 cm. These are our current measurements from hsi-sh.

Rules of conduct during storm surges

Considering how quickly the situation can change, it is important to be prepared. There are some important rules of conduct during storm surges: electricity and gas should be turned off, personal belongings should be secured and a battery-operated radio and flashlights should be available. Planning escape routes is also crucial, while stocking up on supplies and avoiding shore areas.

Another point is rising sea levels, which could lead to higher storm surges in the future. Experts from the Federal Environment Agency point out that climate change could worsen the danger situation, while local anthropogenic measures such as the expansion of estuaries can also have an impact on water levels.

All in all, the storm surge situation on the Baltic Sea remains a serious issue. With the right information and measures to take in the event of storm surges, you can better protect yourself and others. It is important not only to keep an eye on current water levels, but also to consider long-term developments and act accordingly.