Walking along the banks of the Vistula river in Warsaw this week, one thing was striking: the shallow water level. Sand banks had been exposed in places and little islands of stones, normally hidden far below the water level, had emerged for seagulls to use as landing ports. Tourist boats were tied up and Varsovians snapped pictures on their phones to capture the historic, if not sad, view of the great river.
The Vistula, Poland’s longest river, has been experiencing a state of hydrological drought over the past week. The river’s low level, most acute around Warsaw, has been attributed to climate change by experts. Fish in the river are struggling due to low oxygen levels, and previous droughts have revealed historical treasures.
Poland is facing widespread drought conditions, with over 70% of the country’s rivers and waterways currently at low levels. The country’s increasing temperatures and lack of winter snowmelt are contributing to these conditions. Experts warn of the unpredictability and duration of droughts in the region. As a result, major flood protection measures are being put in place for potential severe flooding in the coming days.
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