Less Rain, More Heat - Summer Balance for Hesse - Hesse’s 2023 summer heatwave deepens water shortages and soil strain
Hesse experienced a drier and warmer summer in 2023, with rainfall falling below the long-term average. Data from health insurer DAK-Gesundheit, based on a Forsa survey, highlighted the impact of a heatwave in August 2025, though the effects were already noticeable in previous years. Despite occasional heavy downpours, water levels and soil moisture faced significant strain during the season.
From May to October 2023, Hesse recorded around 382 millimetres of precipitation—roughly 27 millimetres less than usual. The summer months were particularly dry, contributing to lower river and stream levels. A heatwave in August worsened the situation, drying out soils and reducing groundwater reserves.
The 2023 summer season in Hesse saw less rain and higher temperatures, leading to temporary water shortages. While late-season rainfall eased some pressure, groundwater levels still depended heavily on winter replenishment. The findings underscore the importance of seasonal weather patterns in maintaining stable water resources.
