Austria's Water Resources Show Gradual Recovery in November 2025 Amid Stable Weather Patterns

The latest monthly analysis from Austria's Federal Ministry for Agriculture, Forestry, Regions and Water Management indicates a modest improvement in groundwater conditions across the country during November 2025. The report highlights that the average air temperature for the month was +2.1°C, which is close to the long-term average based on data from 1991 to 2020. Temperature extremes remained rare throughout the period, suggesting a stable climate during the month.

National precipitation levels in November were measured at 7 percent below the long-term average. While the Waldviertel and Weinviertel regions experienced marginally higher than normal rainfall, areas such as Tyrol, East Tyrol, and Upper Carinthia recorded significant deficits. This regional variation in precipitation is reflective of broader trends observed over the autumn months, with Tyrol and Carinthia notably drier than usual, whereas the Waldviertel saw above-average rainfall.

Looking at the broader annual perspective, notable precipitation deficits persist in Upper Austria and Lower Carinthia over the past twelve months. Mid-November brought a cold snap, leading to snowfall and frost across parts of the country. The snow line dropped to lower altitudes, particularly north of the Alps, contributing to localized changes in water availability.

Regarding surface water, the report details that close to 40 percent of monitored sites showed low to very low monthly average flows. There were no significant flood events during this period. At Neusiedler See, the water level at the end of November reached 115.34 meters above sea level, standing 9 centimeters below the long-term average.

Groundwater monitoring towards the end of November revealed that approximately half of the observed stations reported low or very low groundwater levels. However, when compared to October, the data points to a slight recovery, signaling tentative improvements despite persistent regional drought risks.

Forecasts from GeoSphere Austria suggest that the following week will likely remain predominantly dry, with precipitation levels expected to stay below seasonal averages. As a result, the national drought index is anticipated to remain slightly negative, indicating continued dryness in many areas of Austria.

Projections for the remainder of the year indicate a persistently high probability of milder than average weather. Expected precipitation should align with climatological norms, which typically means relatively low absolute rainfall for this time of year. Accordingly, experts anticipate that the drought index may stabilize at a dry level, rather than showing substantial improvement.

Based on current forecasts, no significant changes in groundwater conditions are expected for the near future. The Ministry emphasizes the ongoing need for careful monitoring and proactive management to ensure the sustainable protection of Austria's water resources. Authorities underscore that, while recent data points to minor improvements in groundwater and overall hydrological balance, continued vigilance is necessary due to ongoing regional precipitation deficits and the sensitivity of water systems to climate variability.

The full hydrographic report is available to the public, providing detailed data and analysis on Austria's water resources as the country heads into the winter season.