Extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, led to widespread flooding across Europe in 2023. Copernicus and WMO’s comprehensive report reveals that one-third of rivers exceeded the ‘high’ flood threshold, with 16% surpassing the ‘severe’ mark. Italy, Slovenia, Greece, and the UK faced particularly devastating floods, with extreme rainfall driven by climate change as the primary culprit.
While flooding posed significant challenges, the report also highlights the potential of run-of-river hydropower. With above-average precipitation, Europe experienced increased water flow, creating opportunities for renewable electricity generation. The year also witnessed a record proportion of electricity generation from renewable sources, with 43% coming from all renewables and 17% from hydropower alone.
However, droughts also affected parts of Europe, underscoring the region’s diverse hydrological impacts of climate change. Spain’s Ebro River reached near-record low flow in May, while Italy’s Po River experienced below-average flows throughout the year.
The report emphasizes the urgency of flood defense measures and adaptation strategies to mitigate the risks associated with increasingly volatile hydrological events. It also highlights the need for investments in renewable energy sources, such as run-of-river hydropower, to harness the potential of increased water flow while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By addressing these challenges, Europe can better prepare for the hydrological impacts of climate change and transition to a more sustainable energy future.
