Elevated water levels on the Middle Rhine reach maximum
The water levels on the Middle Rhine are expected to rise further in the coming days due to the persistent rain, but will peak at the weekend. On Friday morning, the flood reporting service of the Rhineland-Palatinate State Office for the Environment registered a water level of 4.43 meters at the Kaub gauge with a rising trend. A level of 5.20 meters is forecast there for Sunday, said a spokesman for the Waterways and Shipping Office on Friday.
This means that high water mark I has been reached, at which there are modified rules for shipping, such as reduced speeds and sailing in the middle of the fairway. According to the spokesperson, however, no serious consequences are currently expected as a result of the increased water levels.
The city of Koblenz had announced this week that, in addition to erecting parts of the flood protection wall and closing protective gates on Friday, parking would be banned on the Peter-Altmeier-Ufer. The water level at the Koblenz gauge was 4.99 meters on Friday morning.
Despite the forecast of higher water levels, shipping operations might need to adjust due to the storm approaching. Given the weather conditions, the shippers might have to navigate with caution, ensuring their vessels stay afloat in the rough waters.
Source: www.dpa.com
