Slovenia drought threatens groundwater and building stability

Severe drought conditions in Slovenia have highlighted the vulnerability of the nation's water resources and infrastructure. Groundwater is a critical component of the country's water supply, providing more than 95 percent of drinking water. Experts, including Dr. Luka Serianz from the Geological Institute of Slovenia, warn that the impacts of drought on groundwater are often delayed, as aquifers respond much more slowly to precipitation deficits than rivers or lakes. This delay can cause effects to accumulate over months or even years.

In addition to water supply concerns, the drought has caused physical damage to buildings. The lack of rainfall leads to the evaporation of water from upper soil layers, causing the ground to shrink, particularly in areas with clay-heavy soil. This shrinkage can reach up to 15 percent, leading to foundation settlement of several centimeters. Such movements often manifest as cracks in walls, floors, and reinforced concrete slabs, typically appearing first around windows, doors, and building corners. If left unaddressed, significant settlement can cause permanent damage to a building's load-bearing structures.