Facing Potential Floods in Thuringia: Water Levels Rising in Upstream Rivers
The weather in Thuringia has taken a turn for the worse, with heavy rain causing the water levels in several rivers to rise significantly. The State Environmental Agency has identified the southern edge of the Harz and the upper Unstrut as the most affected areas thus far, with reporting level 1 exceeded at four gauges, and reporting level 2 briefly surpassed at two gauges. The upper Werra and Saale catchment area have also seen guideline values for reporting exceeded, although not to the same extent.
If the forecasted heavy rain continues over the weekend, further substantial and rapid increases in water levels are expected in the upper Werra, upper Saale, upper Unstrut, and the southern edge of the Harz. The Environment Agency's spokesperson has acknowledged the likelihood of significant flooding in some areas as a result.
According to the forecast, many gauging stations could reach reporting level 2 or even level 3 by Saturday night. The peaks are expected in the night from Saturday to Sunday. Subsequently, if the rain weakens on Sunday, the water levels should start to decrease gradually by Monday, allowing for relief and post-flood clean-up and recovery efforts in affected areas, such as the Christmas markets in Erfurt.
Thuringia's Environment Agency employs a multi-stage flood warning system. When the water levels exceed specific values, warnings are issued. At reporting level 1, the responsible authorities respond with control services at bridges and culverts. From reporting level 2, a permanent watch and control service monitors the situation at weirs, dams, and other facilities. Active flood defense occurs from reporting level 3 – that is, in response to very high floods.
Residents in areas like the upper Unstrut and the southern edge of the Harz are bracing for potential flooding. Werra's residents and commuters should be particularly concerned given the rising water level, forecasted heavy rainfall over the weekend, and the proximity of the Christmas markets in Erfurt, which will soon be bustling with visitors.
Source:
Insights:
- The Werra stream, which is part of the Weser river basin, drains the south-western and western parts of Thuringia. Heavy rainfall events such as those following a Genoa low can cause significant flooding in rivers like the Rhine, Moselle, Main, Danube, Weser, Werra, Unstrut, Elbe, Vltava, and their tributaries.
References:
