The Baltic Sea is experiencing historically low water levels, according to data released on February 7, 2026. Measurements at the Landsort-Norra gauge in Sweden show the lowest readings since record-keeping began in 1886, with the water level currently more than 67 centimeters below the long-term average.
Unprecedented Lows and Potential Shifts
An exceptionally prolonged period of east winds is responsible for the current conditions. These winds have pushed approximately 275 cubic kilometers of water out of the Baltic Sea and through the Belt Sea straits – between Germany, Denmark, and Sweden – towards the North Sea in recent weeks.
Researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) suggest that a significant influx of saltwater from the North Sea into the Baltic Sea is likely, should winds shift to a westerly direction.
Potential Benefits for the Baltic Sea Ecosystem
A saltwater inrush could benefit the Baltic Sea in two key ways. The influx of colder, salt water is expected to increase oxygen levels in the deep basins, and potentially lower the elevated deep-water temperatures that have persisted for around two decades.
The information was initially reported by Deutschlandfunk on February 7, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the low water levels in the Baltic Sea?
An exceptionally long-lasting east wind is responsible for pushing large volumes of water out of the Baltic Sea and into the North Sea.
How much water is currently missing from the Baltic Sea?
Approximately 275 cubic kilometers of water are currently missing from the Baltic Sea compared to the long-term average.
What could happen next?
If winds shift to a westerly direction, researchers anticipate a large influx of saltwater from the North Sea into the Baltic Sea.
How might these changing water conditions impact the long-term health of the Baltic Sea ecosystem?
