Danger of flooding in Rinteln: water levels are alarmingly high!

Danger of flooding in Rinteln: water levels are alarmingly high!

Today, July 11, 2025, the Weser is causing worried faces in Rinteln and other neighboring towns. This time of year not only brings warm weather, but also the risk of flooding, which can be exacerbated by persistent rainfall. Originated from the Werra and Fulda rivers near Hann. Münden, the Weser flows through several important cities, including Hamelin, Minden, Bremen and Bremerhaven. The current water levels in Rinteln give rise to fears that the banks could soon be overflowed.

According to reporting by Schaumburg living space is the central reference point for the flood warnings of the Lower Saxony Authority for Water Management, Coastal and Nature Conservation (NLWKN). On its platform, the NLWKN offers comprehensive information about the water level and the dangers posed by floods. The importance of early warning is emphasized here in order to minimize damage and risks for the population and shipping.

Current water levels and warning levels

In Rinteln the level is currently in a critical range. Historical data shows that the mean flood level (MHW) in Rinteln is 563 cm, while the highest flood level (HHW) was 738 cm, reached in February 1946. Current measurements indicate that if the flood level rises to 486 cm, areas are already under water and that at 500 cm the Weser can overflow its banks. From a water level of 560 cm there is a risk of severe flooding, which brings the flood alert levels in Lower Saxony into focus:

• Alarmstufe 1: Kleines Hochwasser
• Alarmstufe 2: Mittleres Hochwasser
• Alarmstufe 3: Großes Hochwasser
• Alarmstufe 4: Sehr großes Hochwasser

How NLWKN As explained, warnings are possible via various channels such as radio, television and warning apps. Citizens should therefore inform themselves well and take the advice of the responsible authorities seriously.

Global flood situation and climate change

Floods are not just a local problem, but are widespread worldwide. A recent analysis shows that floods have accounted for almost 37 percent of all natural disasters since 2000. Climate change is contributing significantly to the increase in heavy rainfall events. The point that a warmer atmosphere stores more precipitation underscores the urgency of both expanding flood protection and considering natural retention areas.

Statistics show that around 7.6 percent of all German addresses are at risk of flooding. Areas along the Rhine and its tributaries are particularly affected, where around 400,000 people will be at risk in the coming years. These figures make it clear how important it is to take flood protection seriously and take preventative measures to protect people and their property. Statista highlights that the development of natural floodplains and the destruction of floodplains are often the main causes of increased flood events.

So it's not just up to Rinteln, but up to all of us how we tackle these challenges. A good hand at flood protection can be crucial to making the best of the current situation. Always be informed, stay safe and prevent wherever possible!