Despite rain, HHNK remains alert to drought in Hollands Noorderkwartier

After weeks of drought, it has rained again in the Netherlands in recent days. In North Holland, 10 to 15 mm of precipitation has fallen in recent days. Rain is expected almost daily for the next two weeks. A total of 75 to 100 mm of rain may fall in our area; this is more than normally falls in an entire month of May.

Because it rained, the precipitation deficit decreased. This is the difference between expected evaporation and measured precipitation. Despite the rain, the year 2025 still ranks among the 5% driest years measured. We therefore remain alert and take measures where necessary.

Water supply

Precipitation has caused water levels in rivers such as the Rhine to rise again in recent days (from 7.39m NAP to 8.2m NAP). Water levels are expected to rise further (to 9m NAP) until the beginning of June. We continuously monitor the water levels closely to respond to drought. Where necessary (and where possible) the water levels in canals and ditches have been raised. In this way more water is retained and a small buffer is created for the summer period.

Safe levees

Precipitation has had a positive effect on our levees and dunes. In recent months, the top layer of some dikes was becoming dry, but there was no reason for Health. Because of the rain that has fallen and is still forecast, we do not expect any problems at our levees in the coming period. Thus, the levees are safe.