Rhine and Moselle rivers recede after record flooding peaks

Rhine and Moselle rivers recede after record flooding peaks

Amy Richards
Amy Richards•
• 2 Min.
A view of the Rhine River with a waterfall in the background, surrounded by trees, plants, and boats on the water, under a cloudy sky, with text at the bottom of the image.

Record water levels on Rhine and Mosel reached - Rhine and Moselle rivers recede after record flooding peaks

Water levels on the Rhine and Moselle rivers have reached their highest points in recent days. Flooding has affected key areas, including Trier, Koblenz, and Bingen, with some roads closed and flood defences in place. Authorities now report that levels are starting to fall.

The Moselle saw its peak at the Trier gauge, where floodwaters climbed to 662 centimeters—nearly seven metres. This marked the highest measurement in the region before levels began to drop. By Saturday, water in Trier is expected to fall below the critical 600-centimeter mark.

On the Middle Rhine, water surpassed 500 centimeters on Friday morning. The peak was forecasted for Friday afternoon, with maximum levels between 505 and 510 centimeters. At Koblenz, readings hovered around the same range, while Bingen recorded between 3.50 and 3.60 metres.

Affected areas include parts of Rheinland-Pfalz and Saarland, such as Lieser-Kesten, Kinheim-Ürzig, and Reil-Kövenig. Road closures and flood defences have been active in these zones. Though minor re-rises remain possible, the overall trend shows a steady decline in water levels through Sunday.

The worst of the flooding appears to have passed, with both the Rhine and Moselle now receding. Local authorities continue monitoring the situation, particularly in previously hard-hit regions. Residents and travellers are advised to stay updated on road conditions and safety measures.