Climate-driven drought impacts forests and biodiversity in Germany and Austria

Extreme heat and prolonged drought periods are causing significant ecological damage across Central Europe, affecting forest stability and biodiversity hotspots.

In the Rheinfelder Wald, drought and heat have damaged various tree species, particularly beech trees on gravelly soils. Due to the risk of branches or crowns breaking, authorities must fell numerous dead or heavily damaged trees this winter to ensure public safety near forest roads and recreational areas. Following these safety harvests, the affected areas will be replanted with climate-resilient species to promote natural forest regeneration.

In Austria, record summer heat and drought have severely impacted biodiversity hotspots, including the Lobau and Seewinkel regions. Ecologist Franz Essl noted that side arms of the Danube in the Lobau remained dry for weeks and months, disrupting local species communities. The Austrian Biodiversity Council has issued warnings regarding these shifts, which include higher average temperatures and increased evaporation, highlighting the urgent need for nature conservation ahead of the upcoming World Conservation Congress.