Record drought and extreme heat deplete Czech water reserves

The Czech Republic continues to grapple with severe hydrological drought and prolonged heatwaves, ranking among the driest years recorded since 1961. Nationwide precipitation remains roughly 34 percent below historical averages, causing sharp drops in both groundwater aquifers and surface water systems.

Water management authorities along the Vltava river cascade have prepared rare emergency measures to draw reserves from the Slapy reservoir if levels at the Orlík dam fall further. Meanwhile, smaller streams across the country have completely dried up, prompting local volunteer groups to rescue stranded aquatic species, including river lampreys and crayfish.

Environmental researchers and municipal officials are urging broader climate adaptation measures, warning that shifting weather patterns heighten desertification risks in southern Moravia and the Elbe basin while stressing the necessity of retaining water in the natural landscape.

Sources: Český rozhlas Plus, Deník N, Hospodářské noviny, iROZHLAS, Seznam Zprávy.