Dry October lowers flood risks

Denmark’s October dryness has reduced the possibility of floods by lowering near-surface groundwater, according to Geus. The August groundwater was ‘exceptionally high,’ but only 45mm of rain fell in October, less than the 83.2mm average. Elevated groundwater remains in areas like East Jutland. Geus hydrologist Raphael Schneider cautions that flood risks are delayed, not averted, depending on winter rainfall. Groundwater levels fluctuate annually, highest in winter due to low evaporation. Climate change may raise Denmark’s groundwater, with projections of a 10cm rise by 2100 under climate targets, or 27cm without action.