Drought situation 5.5.2025

Melting snow increases soil moisture and fills groundwater reserves in the north

In the northern part of the country, meltwaters increase soil moisture, and soil is wet in many places. Soil moisture is decreasing in the southern and central parts of the country but is still at or above normal levels. Groundwater levels are also starting to rise in the north, whereas in the south, the water levels will start to decline next.

The water levels of small groundwater deposits in the southern part of the country are around 20 cm above or below the seasonal averages. In the central part of the country, groundwater levels are mainly close to averages or 10–30 cm lower. In the north, the water levels of small deposits vary depending on how far the spring has advanced. In places, meltwaters have already raised the water levels close to the seasonal averages, whereas water levels remain 10–40 cm lower than the seasonal averages in places.

The water levels of medium and large groundwater bodies in the southern and northern parts of the country are typical of the season for the most part. The water levels in the central part of the country are also mostly normal for the time period, but water levels exceeding the seasonal averages by 20–65 cm also occur in places.

In the spring, soil moisture increases, and groundwater levels start rising as snow and soil frost melt. After the meltwaters fill the groundwater reserves, soil moisture will decrease again, and groundwater levels will start declining. This decline usually continues throughout the summer, as evaporation is stronger during the growing season. Heavy rainfall in the summer may also fill small groundwater deposits, which react faster and more to changes in weather conditions than larger deposits.

 

How should I prepare for droughts?

A period of drought may reduce the volume and impair the quality of well waters and also hamper farming and horticulture. Droughts can and should be prepared for.

Monitor and plan ahead

A drought does not develop overnight, so do not let it catch you by surprise! Watch for the symptoms of draught in your environment and listen to weather forecasts. Observe the groundwater and soil moisture situation in your area and monitor the water level in your well. Find out where you can obtain water if your well runs dry. If you use tap water, keep an eye on any notifications issued by the water utility.

Be observant and store water

When the water level drops in your well, the quality of water may deteriorate. Observe the quality of your well water and if you suspect a quality defect, stop using the water in the kitchen and have it tested. Where possible, you can also store water for future use in a tank or irrigation basin, however remembering that the quality of stagnant water deteriorates quickly.

Start irrigation in time

You should start irrigating your crops early rather than late. If the ground surface is already dry, it is less absorbent and the water runs away. In lands prone to drought, draught risks should be taken into account when selecting crops for cultivation. The harms caused by drought can additionally be mitigated by selecting suitable tillage methods and other cultivation techniques.

Fun facts about droughts