Impact of Low Water Levels in Lake Constance Due to Drought

The water levels at Lake Constance have reached a historic low, largely attributed to ongoing drought conditions, which have resulted in a significant decrease in rainfall and melting snow. This situation has not yet affected water supply, but certain harbors are experiencing operational challenges.

As the drought persists, the water level in Lake Constance continues to drop, with forecasts suggesting further declines in the coming days due to a lack of precipitation. The Untersee, the western part of Lake Constance, has already seen the drying up of one harbor. Additionally, parts of the lakebed are becoming visible, including the Hoy Island near Lindau, which has become accessible by foot due to the receding water level.

Current measurements indicate that the water level is approximately 35 centimeters below the seasonal average for this time of year. While this is not a record low, it is notably lower than usual for spring. Historically, the lake reaches its lowest levels during winter months, with the last recorded low point occurring on February 15, 2006, which was 43 centimeters lower than the current levels.

The primary factors contributing to the reduced water levels are insufficient rainfall and limited snowmelt from the Alps. Snow accumulation in the Rhine River basin, which feeds into Lake Constance, is below long-term averages. Consequently, larger vessels navigating the Rhine are restricted in their cargo capacity due to the unusually low water levels.

Officials, including the Federal Minister for the Environment, have expressed concern over the current situation, stating that many regions in Germany are experiencing abnormally dry conditions this spring, exacerbated by a lack of rainfall and snowmelt.

Forecasts from the German Weather Service indicate that rain is not expected in the immediate future, with potential showers anticipated only starting Sunday. The low water levels pose challenges for the Bodensee-Schiffsbetriebe, the operator of passenger ships on the lake. Due to insufficient water, several harbors will remain inaccessible when the season starts on Sunday, including Langenargen, Immenstaad, and Bad Schachen. Despite these challenges, operators have noted that low water levels are not uncommon for this time of year.

Fortunately, the water supply for drinking remains unaffected, as the extraction facilities draw from depths of 70 meters, thus shielding them from surface level fluctuations. Furthermore, studies indicate that the current low water levels do not adversely impact fish populations within the lake.