Historic Low Water Levels Recorded in the Elbe River

Fri 11th Jul, 2025

Magdeburg - The Elbe River has reached an unprecedented low water level, with measurements showing a record low of just 44 centimeters near Magdeburg. This alarming development has raised concerns among experts, who warn that levels may continue to decline.

This is the lowest the river has been since modern measuring techniques were introduced. In July 2019, the water level dropped to 45 centimeters, but recent measurements taken by the Elbe Shipping and Waterways Authority (WSA) indicate a further decrease to 44 centimeters.

If dry conditions persist, the Elbe could face even more severe desiccation. This situation has significantly impacted river traffic, leading to a substantial reduction in services from passenger companies. The White Fleet has announced that due to the ongoing low water levels, its vessels can no longer operate within the city limits. Additionally, cargo transport has been hampered as the riverbed is not deep enough for shipping.

In Dresden, the situation mirrors that of Magdeburg, with crucial ferry services suspended after the water level fell to 45 centimeters. The environmental organization BUND has expressed concerns about the navigability of the Elbe, which flows through Germany for 727 kilometers. The chairperson of BUND, Professor Dr. Dr. Felix Ekardt, stated that the current conditions make the Elbe increasingly unviable for cargo shipping. With climate change contributing to increasing periods of low water, the situation is expected to worsen.

Authorities in Magdeburg have issued warnings regarding swimming in the Elbe. Despite the low water levels, the current remains hazardous, and the underwater terrain is unpredictable. Police have enforced a ban on swimming in the river due to these dangers.

Furthermore, the ongoing drought could expose hazardous materials, such as scrap metal and unexploded ordnance from World War II, previously submerged in the riverbed. The police recently reported that old munitions were discovered on the banks of the Elbe, prompting the intervention of bomb disposal units.

While the Elbe faces critical challenges, other rivers in Germany, such as the Rhine and Danube, are not experiencing as severe conditions. As of Friday, the water level at the Cologne gauge was measured at 1.60 meters and is gradually rising, indicating a more stable situation compared to the Elbe.


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