The Czech Republic is currently grappling with an acute water crisis, with falling levels of rivers and lakes posing a threat to crops and drinking water supplies. According to the Czech Data project, 34% of the country’s territory is under the looming threat of drought, resulting in over 30% of agricultural losses.

A major contributing factor to this crisis is the alarming and prolonged decline in groundwater levels, a valuable resource that, once depleted, may take decades to replenish. Data analysis conducted by the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute reveals a concerning trend, with the average groundwater level, measured by the VAL value, dropping by 127% over the past eleven years (between April 2011 and April 2022).

The primary driver of this decline is the increased evaporation of water due to rising temperatures. Despite rainfall during this period being only 5% less than the long-term average, the challenge lies in the distribution of rain. Most rainfall occurs during intense events, leading to surface runoff rather than penetration into the subsoil.

Hydrometeorologist Anna Lamačová highlighted the ongoing issue of evaporation, emphasizing that even additional rainfall might not alleviate the situation. Professor Martin Hanel from the Czech Agricultural University explained that most rainfalls during a few extreme events, with extended periods between them without rain.

In response to the drought, various strategies are being explored. In some regions, such as Bruntálsko or Vysočina, the presence of beavers and their dams is helping retain water in the landscape. Wetlands created by beavers not only contribute to water retention but also assist in water purification. The Centre for Environmental Issues of Charles University and the Biological Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences have developed a national standard for soil care, providing guidelines to support water retention in the landscape. Field division into barriers, in the form of meadows or infiltration strips, is another strategy being considered to slow down water flow and enhance infiltration. The Czech Republic is actively exploring these measures to mitigate the impact of the water crisis and ensure sustainable water management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Article by Prague Forum