Thaw and Rainfall Threaten Rivers: IMGW Expands Warnings for Many Regions

Analysis of the current hydrological situation in Poland indicates a growing flood threat resulting from rapid snowmelt and forecasted rainfall. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has expanded the coverage of hydrological warnings, encompassing additional watersheds. Currently, on six rivers in different parts of the country, waters have overflowed their banks, exceeding alarm levels. A particularly difficult situation prevails in Pomerania, where residents, including those near Lębork, are struggling with flooded basements and properties. Technical services, including units of Polish Waters, are working in intervention mode, securing embankments and monitoring hydrotechnical infrastructure. The rising water levels also have a dramatic impact on the agricultural sector. Cropland in many regions of the country has been flooded again, raising serious concerns among rapeseed and wheat growers. Excess soil moisture prevents heavy machinery from entering fields, delaying crucial nitrogen fertilization at this time of year. Farmers point out that prolonged water stagnation can lead to the rotting of root systems in winter crops. An additional problem is beavers, whose activity – involving dam building – contributes to slowing down water drainage from agricultural areas. Meanwhile, in the mountains, the first signs of awakening nature have been recorded; in the Chochołowska Valley, single crocuses have been spotted, though more stable temperatures are still needed for mass blooming. The largest snowmelt flood in Poland's post-war history occurred in 1979, when a rapid warming after the so-called winter of the century led to the flooding of over a million hectares of land.Simultaneously with the flood threat, March brings the first challenges for allergy sufferers. Medical reports indicate that the pollen season for early plants has begun in the northeastern part of the country and in Germany. Experts appeal for distinguishing the symptoms of hay fever from a common cold, which is crucial for the proper use of antihistamine medications. Meanwhile, in amateur gardening, the dominant topic is lawn regeneration after winter. However, professionals advise holding off on the first raking until the ground is completely dry to avoid pulling out young grass shoots. In the context of safety, a dangerous incident was reported in Nowa Wieś Lęborska, where ice on a water reservoir gave way under a 12-year-old girl. This situation serves as a warning about still-dangerous bodies of water, which lose ice stability under the influence of the sun. Rescue services appeal for special caution for children near rivers and lakes during the thaw period.

Perspektywy mediów: Media emphasize the need to strengthen flood protection infrastructure and support for farmers affected by the consequences of climate change. Commentators focus on individual responsibility for ignoring warnings and on the technical aspects of watershed management by the state.