After years of drought: Europe's groundwater is drying out

Groundwater reserves across Europe are at risk of drying up as an effect of a prolonged drought seen since 2018.

Data analysed by the Institute of Geodesy at Graz University of Technology shows that groundwater levels have remained constantly low from the beginning of the drought.

Due to the depleted reserves, the impact of extreme events such as last year’s heatwave are exacerbated.

During the period, which saw temperatures pass 40C in the UK for the first time, we saw dried riverbeds across the country and Europe.

Not only impacting on our lives, but also the marine life that rely on these waters for their habitat space.

Those in agriculture also felt the squeeze as our reservoirs dwindled and water use restrictions were introduced.

The team behind this study used data from two satellites, known as Tom and Jerry, which create a gravity map of the planet.

This shows mass changes in the Earth, and was used in conjunction with partners across Europe who provided the data needed to find groundwater reserves.

The results show that Europe is on the precipice of a water disaster and desperately needs prolonged periods of rainfall to help replenish the drying land.