Water level forecast

Water-level forecasts play a pivotal role in logistical decision-making. The dynamic impact of climate change has accelerated water-level fluctuations, emphasizing the need for an extended lead-time to enhance planning reliability. As part of FAIRway Danube II Water-Level Forecast will be enhanced.

• Austria and Hungary:
  Extension of the lead time to 6 days.
• Romania and Bulgaria:
  Extension of the lead time to 7 days.

A feasibility study is underway in collaboration with Austria (AT), Hungary (HU), and Romania (RO) to assess the viability of introducing a midterm forecast extending up to 6 weeks. This ambitious initiative aims to further enhance planning capabilities and adapt to the evolving challenges posed by climate change.

Significance of Extended Water-Level Forecast

Improved Logistics Decision-Making and Planning Reliability
Logistics operators heavily rely on water-level forecasts for loading decisions. With an extended lead-time, operators can make more informed and strategic choices, optimizing their logistics operations. This translates to smoother and more efficient transportation of goods.

Climate Change Adaptation
The accelerated changes in water levels due to climate change necessitate proactive measures. The extended forecast lead-time allows for better preparation and adaptability to dynamic environmental conditions, e.g. by flexible infrastructure elements that increase the fairway depth and can be installed before a projected low water period.