Warsaw faces its lowest-ever Vistula River levels, with forecasts predicting further declines and water supply concerns as drought conditions persist nationwide.
Water Levels in the Vistula River Drop
On Tuesday, August 26, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management reported that water levels in the Vistula River at the Warsaw-Bulwary and Gusin stations had fallen to 8 centimeters. They are expected to drop further to 7 centimeters in the next two days. Synoptic experts noted that a hydrological drought persists across most of Poland, accompanied by fire hazards in forested areas nationwide.
Will Water Supplies Be at Risk?
The majority of Warsaw’s drinking water comes from the Vistula River, primarily through the “Gruba Kasa,” a massive infiltration well that collects water from depths of about 7 meters—not directly from the riverbed. Water utilities also draw from Lake Zegrzyński, ensuring redundancy in case of shortages from one source. According to Jolanta Maliszewska, spokesperson for Warsaw’s Water and Sewerage Company, the system is designed to switch to alternative sources if needed. “Residents will not face water shortages from taps,” she emphasized. Meanwhile, residents in Lesser Poland Province are already struggling with water shortages, prompting local authorities in Mszana Dolna and Kalwaria Zebrzydowska to urge water conservation. Water supply restrictions in Mszana Dolna were suspended during rainfall, but remain in place otherwise.
Heatwave Warnings for Upcoming Days
Experts have issued first-level heat warnings for an approaching heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 30°C in many regions, particularly in western and southern Poland. The alert applies to the provinces of Greater Poland, Lubusz, Lower Silesia, and Opole from August 28 at 7:30 AM to August 29 at 7:30 AM. Second-level heat warnings have been issued for the provinces of Masovia, Łódź, Świętokrzyskie, Silesia, and Lesser Poland, lasting from August 28 at 7:30 AM to August 30 at 7:30 AM.
Source: Gazeta, Institute of Meteorology and Water Management, TVN24 interview with Jolanta Maliszewska.