After drought: Elbe water levels could rise further

After weeks of drought and very low water levels in the Elbe, there are signs that the situation is easing. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), a low-pressure complex will bring humid air from the southwest to Saxony in the coming days - with an increasing tendency to showers and thunderstorms as well as locally heavy rain. The water levels of the Elbe could rise further as a result.

The water level had already risen slightly in the past few days: According to an overview by the state flood control center, low water was indeed prevailing in Dresden on Saturday afternoon with a water level of more than 70 centimetres. However, this was significantly higher than at the beginning of July, when the water level had reached a low of just 58 centimetres. For comparison: the average water level in Dresden is around 149 centimetres.

White Fleet back on the water

The White Fleet is also benefiting from the rise: since Saturday, the company has been offering the popular castle cruises from Dresden to Pillnitz again. These had previously had to be discontinued. "The current water level makes it possible for our ships to safely pass a shallower section near Laubegast again," explained Nautical Director Jochen Haubold before the weekend. The three-hour trips to the castles are scheduled up to four times a day.

Rain could provide further relief

City trips in Dresden and connections in Saxon Switzerland and between Dresden and Seußlitz are also currently running again. Further routes are to follow as soon as the water levels allow. The forecast rainfall could favor this.