Storm surges on the Baltic Sea: Current water levels at a glance!

Storm surges on the Baltic Sea: Current water levels at a glance!

Storm surges on the Baltic Sea made several headlines this year and raised awareness among the population. Loud KN Online Five storm surges have already occurred between July 2022 and June 2023. In the following year, the 2021/2022 season, there were even seven. These frequent storm surges show that the coastal regions of the Baltic Sea are increasingly confronted with natural hazards.

Storm surges are classified on the German Baltic Sea coast from a water level of one meter above the mean water level. The experts distinguish between different storm surge classes: from light storm surges (1.00 to 1.25 meters) to very severe storm surges, which are measured over two meters. This classification is important in order to better assess the dangers posed by a storm surge. In the past, storms that led to floods were particularly devastating. The most severe storm surge, which occurred on November 13th and 14th, 1872 in the southwestern Baltic Sea, was followed by 271 deaths and significant property damage.

Water levels and weather situations

Current water levels show that water levels fluctuate greatly in different locations. For example, on August 12, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. a water level of 1268 cm was recorded on the Eider, which is 53 cm above the mean water ( hsi-sh.de ). At the same time, a water level of 531 cm was recorded on the Krückau, at which the difference to the astronomical tide was minus 8 cm.

Weather conditions are crucial for the Baltic Sea. Typically, the direction and strength of winds play a key role in the creation of storm surges. A strong wind from inland can lead to a dangerous build-up of wind, which can then significantly increase storm surges in the North Sea and Baltic Sea, like this Federal Environment Agency describes.

Precautions and warning systems

It is clear that the population must be well informed and prepared in the event of storm surges. Warning systems are essential for this. In Germany, various bodies, such as the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency, act and provide citizens with information about flood warnings. The flood control centers in every federal state also help to ensure that people can be warned in good time. Various channels are used, including radio, television, warning apps and even social media.

Furthermore, citizens in regions affected by storm surges should always keep a few rules of conduct in mind. This includes turning off electricity and gas, securing personal belongings on higher floors, keeping supplies of food and drinking water on hand, and avoiding shore areas during critical weather conditions.

Overall, it appears that the frequency and intensity of storm surges is a growing problem and the number of extreme weather events could increase in the future. Clarifying and preparing for such natural events is therefore more important than ever.