GERMANY FACES HISTORIC DROUGHT, SPARKING FEARS OF FOREST FIRES AND FAILED HARVESTS

An Emirati Magazine publication – Released on April 17,2025 | www.emiratimagazine.com

Germany is facing a significant drought due to unusually low rainfall, raising concerns over forest fires and poor harvests. Between February 1 and April 13, only 40 litres of rain per square metre fell—Germany’s lowest since records began in 1931, the German Weather Service (DWD) reported. This is 68% below the average from 1991 to 2020. Environment Minister Steffi Lemke called the situation “worrying,” warning of threats to agriculture and forestry.

Northwest Germany experienced 35% less rain, while southeastern regions saw up to 80% less. Northern Europe, including Belgium and the Netherlands, also reported below-average rainfall, in contrast to heavy rains in southern Europe. The drought is already impacting asparagus growers in Lower Saxony and revealing dry shorelines along Lake Constance. Low water levels in the Rhine are affecting both the environment and economy. However, the DWD forecasts significant rainfall next week, which may bring relief to some areas.