Holstebro Municipality braces for potential flooding as water levels rise in Denmark

Holstebro Municipality is facing high water levels in several streams due to an unusually wet summer, raising concerns about potential flooding with the rainy autumn approaching. The local Nature, Environment and Climate Committee is set to discuss preventive measures.

Residents have voiced concerns that the streams are not effectively draining water. Karsten Filsø, the committee chair, noted that property owners are increasingly worried about rising water levels threatening their summer homes. “If the water continues to rise, serious damages could occur,” says Bjørn Albinus, chair of the Vester Husby Property Owners Association.

In areas like Vester Husby, the Vester Landkanal frequently exceeds its banks, submerging summer properties. Albinus mentions that obstacles like fallen trees and overgrown vegetation are hindering the water flow. He advocates for more frequent vegetation management, which involves trimming back plants that obstruct waterways.

This summer saw approximately 400 millimeters of rainfall in Holstebro, with predictions suggesting a record annual rainfall for 2024. Groundwater levels are notably 40 centimeters higher than average for this season in Denmark.

Regulatory restrictions complicate the situation, as there are specific guidelines governing how natural waterways should be maintained. These rules aim to balance water drainage with ecological considerations, limiting the frequency with which the municipality can manage plant growth.

Filsø expressed cautious optimism about obtaining permission for additional vegetation management efforts. “In some areas, we can increase our efforts. I expect a reasonable understanding of what assistance we can provide,” he stated. Albinus hopes that these measures will be implemented soon to prevent serious damage to homes in the area.