Lake Constance water levels extremely low

Lake Constance Water Levels Plunge to Near Historic Lows Amidst Persistent Drought

Prolonged drought conditions have precipitated alarmingly low water levels in western Lake Constance, with the harbor at Mannenbach, situated on Lower Lake Constance, now completely desiccated. Local water authorities issued this report on Tuesday, highlighting the severity of the situation at this popular European lake bordering Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

Lake Constance, a significant body of water in Central Europe, is located at the convergence of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

Measurements taken on April 1st at Mannenbach, a location approximately 12 kilometers west of Konstanz, reveal that the water level is perilously close to the historic low recorded on the same date in 1972 and significantly below the long-term average for this time of year. This critical situation underscores the impact of the ongoing drought in the region.

Reasons for Diminished Water Levels

Authorities attribute the reduced water levels to deficient rainfall and diminished snowmelt from the Alps. The Rhine catchment area, which feeds into Lake Constance, has experienced unusually low snowfall this past winter. This lack of precipitation and snowpack is directly impacting the lake’s water volume, leading to the current crisis.

Bleak Outlook and Potential Further Decline

The prognosis remains unfavorable. Philemon Diggelmann, head of the regional hydrology department, has indicated a pessimistic outlook. He stated that a persistent high-pressure weather system expected to last for the next ten days, coupled with forecasts of minimal increases in snowmelt, suggests the water level could decrease further. This extended period of dry weather is exacerbating the already critical water level situation in Lake Constance.

Discrepancy Between Upper and Lower Lake Constance

While Upper Lake Constance is also experiencing diminished water levels, the situation is not as critical as in the Lower Lake. The reasons for this disparity are currently unclear, according to Diggelmann.

Possible Algae Impact

He proposed that algae proliferation may be impeding water flow through the Seerhein, the connecting waterway between the Upper and Lower lakes, potentially contributing to the more severe conditions in the Lower lake. Further investigation is needed to confirm this hypothesis and fully understand the differing impacts on Upper and Lower Lake Constance.