Austria and Germany grapple with drought‑driven crop losses

A prolonged dry spell across Central Europe is threatening food production in both Austria and Germany. In Austria, the lack of rain after a dry winter and an early heat wave has left vineyards, vegetable fields and other crops at risk, prompting officials such as environmental statistician Gregor Laaha of BOKU to warn of possible higher food prices and strain on health and the environment.

In Bavaria, Germany, the 2026 harvest faces similar water shortages. Farmers report that the dry, warm spring reduced soil moisture, making water the decisive factor for yields. While some winter crops performed adequately, summer cereals, rapeseed and other crops are expected to see considerable regional yield drops, according to the Bavarian Farmers' Association and agricultural experts. BBV President Günther Felßner anticipates an average to poor harvest, with outcomes varying widely by soil water‑holding capacity.