Baltic Sea under pressure: Current water levels and storm surge warnings!

Baltic Sea under pressure: Current water levels and storm surge warnings!

On June 22, 2025, the topic of flooding will once again be on everyone's lips in the Baltic Sea. According to current measurements taken by the Baltic Sea newspaper were published, the water levels in the cities of Wismar, Warnemünde and Greifswald show worrying trends. The caution of the responsible authorities is needed more than ever, as the Baltic Sea coast is known to be confronted with storm surges. But what does this mean for residents and their safety?

Current data from Warnemünde shows that the average water level between November 1st, 2010 and October 31st, 2020 was 507 cm. During this time, water levels vary with a mean low water (MNW) of 407 cm and a mean high water (MHW) of 617 cm, with the highest flood level since records began in 1872 being 770 cm. This leads to the questions: What happens when there is an increase? How do you prepare?

Storm surge classes and their meaning

When the water rises above the average water level, experts speak of storm surges, which are divided into different classes. The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency has clearly regulated this: A light storm surge is between 1.00 and 1.25 m above the mean water level, while information beyond this goes up to very severe storm surges that rise above 2.00 m. In view of the last severe storm surge in 2022, awareness of these risks has increased.

The last extreme flood events in recent years show that the risk of a storm surge should not be underestimated. In the last flood season alone, 13 storm surges were recorded and the effects are obvious. Municipalities like Sassnitz report damage amounting to 56 million euros, which affects, among other things, the tourist infrastructure and the harbor protection systems.

How do I behave correctly?

The Prevention, especially with flood warnings, is crucial for those affected. If storm surges are imminent, people should ensure that they have turned off their electricity and gas supplies, that important personal items are secured and that they have sufficient supplies of food and drinking water. If the authorities ask you to evacuate, it is advisable to have your hand luggage immediately to hand and to seek shelter on higher floors.

In summary, it can be seen that the Baltic Sea coast, like many coastal regions, is increasingly exposed to sea level rise and associated storm surges. This shows us the urgency of both taking preventive action and responding to flood warnings at short notice. Stay informed and protect yourself!