Prolonged dry spell lowers water levels in Flanders and across Europe
Exceptionally dry conditions in March and April have led to a rapid drop in water levels and flows in both navigable and non-navigable rivers in Flanders. Similar dry conditions can be observed in other parts of Europe.
According to the Coordination Committee for Integrated Water Policy, the low rainfall has caused many waterways to reach unusually low levels for this time of year, especially in the western and northern regions of Flanders. Groundwater levels also vary greatly, from very low to high, depending on the area.
The Flemish Drought Commission and Advisory Group have reviewed the situation and decided to maintain code yellow, a warning level requiring increased vigilance and water-saving measures. While there are currently no bans on water abstraction, farmers are advised to retain water where possible by raising small weirs and reducing drainage.
Widespread drought
These conditions reflect a wider pattern across Europe. The European Commission's Joint Research Centre Drought in Europe report for April highlights widespread drought across central, eastern and northwestern Europe, driven by low rainfall and warmer than average temperatures. March 2025 was the driest March on record in Germany, with the level of the Rhine at Cologne falling to almost half of the seasonal norm.
Soil moisture levels plummeted across much of Europe and the eastern Mediterranean, putting pressure on ecosystems, agriculture and inland waterways. Parts of southern Europe experienced contrasting conditions, with heavy rainfall causing localised flooding and infrastructure damage in areas such as Portugal and northern Italy.
With forecasts of continued dry weather into June, officials warn that continued low river flows and depleted soils could worsen, affecting agriculture, biodiversity and supply routes across the continent.
#FlandersNewsService | Fields in the Flemish countryside © PHOTO BELGIANnFREELANCE
Related news
