Baltic Sea levels are rising: flood warnings for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania!

Baltic Sea levels are rising: flood warnings for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania!

What is happening on the coast of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania? Today, July 19, 2025, the water levels of the Baltic Sea are the focus of attention. The current situation at various measuring stations such as Wismar, Warnemünde and Stralsund shows an impressive range of water levels and impressively reminds us of the challenges that storm surges bring with them.

The terms “mean low water” (MNW) and “mean high water” (MHW) are particularly important in this context. For Warnemünde, the average low water level is 407 cm and the average high water level is 617 cm, as the Baltic Sea newspaper reported. The extreme values ​​are all the more remarkable: the highest flood level in Warnemünde was measured on November 13, 1872 at 770 cm, while the lowest water level was on October 18, 1967 at 332 cm.

The dangers of storm surges

Storm surges pose a serious threat to coastal areas. They are caused primarily by strong winds that create a wind jam, and can last for a period of one to two days in the Baltic Sea, such as this Federal Environment Agency explained. The classification of storm surges ranges from mild to very severe storm surges - the latter occurs when water levels are more than 2.00 m above the mean water level. The last severe storm surge, which occurred in October, caused damage worth 56 million euros. The city of Sassnitz was hit particularly hard, as it had to declare a financial need of around 42 million euros for infrastructure restoration.

How can we protect ourselves from such dangers? Flood warnings are issued by various institutions such as flood control centers or the police and fire brigade. This information is disseminated through numerous channels, including radio, television and even modern alert apps. At a time when digitalization is very important, the public should also be well informed about the dangers in order to be able to react in a timely manner.

Experiences from the past and outlook on the future

A look at history shows that storm surges are not new. The most severe storm surge in the southwestern Baltic Sea in November 1872 left deep scars and cost 271 people their lives. These historic events are a reminder that we must take developments in climate change seriously. Rising sea levels could increase the dangers of future storm surges. The risk depends on various factors, including wind intensity and existing flood protection measures. These considerations are particularly relevant on the Baltic Sea coast, as storm surges often occur here, especially in the winter months.

In recent years, mild storm surges have no longer been uncommon on the Baltic Sea coast. The challenges for coastal residents and the infrastructure remain high. But with a growing awareness of these natural hazards and active protective measures, we are better equipped to cope with the forces of nature.

The coming months will show how the water levels develop and what measures need to be taken to protect the coastal region. Cooperation between the authorities and the population plays a crucial role here. We can't wait to see what the seaside future has in store for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania!