Flood ticker: Current water levels on the Leine in Hanover!

Flood ticker: Current water levels on the Leine in Hanover!

Hanover and surrounding areas are keeping an eye on the water levels of the Leine as summer rains boost rivers in northern Germany. The city's two main rivers, the Leine and the Ihme, play an essential role in regional water management. The Leine has its origins in southern Eichsfeld and winds through Göttingen and Hanover before flowing into the Aller north of Schwarmstedt. The Ihme, on the other hand, is shorter and flows into the Leine after it has passed the Ricklinger gravel ponds. In addition to being scenic, these rivers are important for monitoring and communicating flood warnings in the region.

As the Hannoversche Allgemeine reported, the water levels are currently of particular importance. Today, June 22, 2025, the level of the line is shown taking into account the long-term average values. The level in Hanover-Herrenhausen is 74 cm, which is 52% below the average value of 155 cm. The trend is falling, while the level in Neustadt at 172 cm is also below the average of 213 cm, but remains constant. This gives reason to hope that the situation will not worsen. At Schwarmstedt the water level is 75 cm - 51% below the average, also in a stable position.

Water levels and warning levels

In recent decades, the water levels in the Leine have changed significantly. Historically, the highest water level ever recorded was 644 cm on February 10, 1946. This is also reflected in the flood warning levels. The reporting levels are divided into:

• Stufe 1: Bordvoller Abfluss, vereinzelt Überflutungen.
• Stufe 2: Überschwemmung land- und forstwirtschaftlicher Flächen.
• Stufe 3: Überflutungen von Grundstücken, Straßen und Kellern möglich.
• Stufe 4: Größere Überflutungen in bebauten Gebieten, Einsatz von Wasser- und Dammwehren erforderlich.

Local authorities are required to keep the population informed about potential dangers. Information reaches citizens through a variety of channels - be it radio, television, warning apps or social media. In addition, the Lower Saxony State Office for Water Management, Coastal and Nature Conservation (NLWKN) is developing comprehensive flood hazard and risk maps that show which areas are at risk of flooding and what measures can be taken.

Keep an eye on it

It is particularly important for residents in flood-prone regions to be vigilant. The interactive map, provided through the Department of the Environment, is a valuable resource. This makes it possible to check specific addresses for flood risk. The maps are broken down by river area and provide a detailed overview of possible floods and the expected water depths. Everyone should familiarize themselves with local conditions and take appropriate measures to minimize harm.

As has been shown in the past, flood events similar to the Christmas flood of 2023 can affect large parts of the country. Good preparation and knowledge of the risks can help to better navigate such natural events.

So let's see the current water level as a warning signal and stay vigilant as long as the weather conditions in northern Germany are good for surprises. The Leine and Hime challenge us to always make informed decisions. Ultimately, responsibility for our safety lies with each individual.