Autumn rain is not enough. Why do rivers keep drying up?
The autumn rains that have passed through Poland in recent weeks have not brought the expected improvement in the hydrological situation. Although a lot of water has fallen in some places, there are still over 80 hydrological drought warnings in force across the country. Heavy rainfall that concentrated in one place is unable to recharge the deeply dried soil and water reservoirs.
As Emilia Szewczak from the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management explains, even and long-lasting rainfall is crucial:
"We need rainfall that lasts a long time, falling gradually, freely and calmly, so that it can effectively moisturize and soak the soil."
Waiting for snow. IMWM explains what can save us
Specialists have no doubt: for the hydrological situation in Poland to improve, a rainy autumn and a snowy winter are necessary.
Snowfall that will remain on the surface for several months will act as a natural water reservoir, releasing it during spring thaws. When plants need moisture the most, the gradual melting of snow can actually nourish the soil and local watercourses.
No more watering your gardens. Municipalities are turning off the taps
Due to the continuing drought, many municipalities have introduced restrictions on the use of water, especially that intended for watering gardens or washing cars. Local authorities appeal to residents to manage resources wisely, especially during times of peak consumption.
Łukasz Szeląg from Wodociągi Zachodniopomorskie draws attention to the problem of the growing demand for water in rural areas where new housing estates are being built.
Settlements are expanding in rural areas where the infrastructure was not adapted to it. Dishwasher, laundry, cleaning - all this causes an increase in water consumption in places that were not planned for it - Szeląg enumerates.
Experts recommend watering gardens only with rainwater, preferably early in the morning or late in the evening.
Dramatic situation in the south. The race for deeper wells
The most difficult situation is in southern Poland, especially in Podhale. In many towns, such as Czarny Dunajec, Załuczne, Odrowąż and Pieniążkowice, wells and local streams dried up. Residents are forced to use water delivered by tankers. The mayor of Czarny Dunajec, Marcin Ratułowski, does not hide the seriousness of the situation:
"The situation is the worst in those villages that are located on hills. (...) In some towns there is a race to see who will dig deeper and how to do it."
Both traditional wells and deep-sea drilling are drying up. The problem concerns not only access to drinking water, but also the ability to water crops or water animals.
Crisis at the gates. How can small gestures stop water?
Although the scale of the problem seems overwhelming, experts emphasize that every person can influence the improvement of the situation. Even small actions, such as saving water during everyday activities, can bring tangible results.
Each such small action means that we do not lose this water, but simply retain it. Let's put the laundry in when the washing machine is full. Similarly, turn off the taps to prevent water from leaking out. We brush our teeth - turn off the water, wash in the shower, not in the bathtub, to simply use less water - reminds Emilia Szewczak.
The coming weeks and months will be crucial for the hydrological situation in Poland. If autumn turns out to be dry and winter does not bring snow, the country may face an even more serious water crisis in spring 2027.
