Water level rises

Regulation of water level rises through planning

The average water level in the sea around Denmark will rise. How much is uncertain, but the section "Future sea levels" presents the expectation of a rising sea around Denmark in the current century.

The groundwater level can also rise due to increased precipitation and groundwater formation. It is, however, still being determined how much, and it could even decrease in some places. Besides, there can be significant local variations.

Rising water levels can challenge future developments, initially due to an increased risk of flooding during heavy storms and heavy rain, but also, in the long term, during less extreme weather situations. The tool  ‘KAMP‘ here on the portal helps assess local risks, e.g. rise in sea level or water table for a given area or settlement.

Regarding new construction, expected water rises will first affect the allocation of areas and plots of land for building and facilities via land use planning.

Builders in connection with new construction, conversions, and extensions in coastal areas should consider the conditions that apply when facing challenges from seawater rises and storm surges. More information about this topic is available in the Danish Authority of Social Services and Housing’s guidelines on construction in coastal areas.