Dryness is worried: water shortages threatens shipping in the Rhine!
Dryness is worried: water shortages threatens shipping in the Rhine!
In most regions of Germany, the rain will be out of the coming days. Only in the northeast could a little rainfall fall on Friday. The German Weather Service (DWD) already speaks of an "extraordinary dry period" that shapes the current weather conditions. A change in weather with changeable weather, on the other hand, is expected for the coming weekend. The first showers and thunderstorms could move from west to Germany on Sunday.
The low water levels in the Rhine are particularly worrying, which cause significant problems for shipping. According to Florian Krekel, spokesman for the Rhein Wasserstraßen- und Shipping Office, this dry phase is atypical for spring. The reduced depth of the ships leads to a reduction in transport capacities, whereby the Middle Rhine line is most affected.historical weather anomalies
The DWD reports that March was one of the driest months since the beginning of the records. The soil moisture in the upper layers in the north was up to 20 percent below the long -term minimal values. Winter, especially February, also proved to be extremely dry. In view of these anomalies, it is hardly surprising that in Germany there is increasing concern about water availability.
The low rainfalls are not only due to the current weather conditions, but also to climate change. Data show that in 2024 the warmest year has been since the beginning of the measurements, and the demand for water is becoming increasingly urgent due to this long -lasting drought. According to the Federal Environment Agency were very different in 2024. While the Alps and the Black Forest recorded high values, in the northeast fell below 500 l/m².
overall economic effects
Helmut Dedy, General Manager of the German City Day, calls for economy in dealing with drinking water and emphasizes the importance of efficient water use in the city, agriculture and industry. However, there is currently no worry about drinking water supply. A deficiency has not yet been in sight, since 70 percent of the drinking water comes from ground and spring water and the public water supply has only removed 3.1 percent of renewable water resources in recent decades.
Nevertheless, the regional differences in water availability are evident. In parts of Germany, local bottlenecks can occur in dry years, and agriculture is particularly affected. An increasing need for irrigation could follow the continued drought.
The DWD pointed out that the adaptation strategies to climate change in the areas of water management and agriculture are more necessary than ever. In view of the forecast long -term changes in precipitation, it is crucial to take measures to improve water supply. Tips on garden irrigation and care of city and road trees are more urgent than ever to alleviate the effects of dryness.
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