THE WATER-ABUNDANCE OF RIVERS IN 2024

Abstract

In 2024, Slovenian rivers carried about 15% more water than the average for the reference period 1991–2020, making it the 6th most water-abundant year since 1981. Most rivers had above-average annual discharges, with the Drava river and the upper reaches of the Sava and Soča rivers being the most water-abundant, carrying about one-third more water than usual. In contrast, the Krka and Sotla rivers experienced below-average flows, with annual discharges nearly 10% lower than the long-term average. June was the most water-abundant month, with river discharges nearly double the average for that month. The second most water-abundant month was October, with the absolute highest monthly average discharge of the year. On the other hand, November and December were the driest months, and July and August also saw below-average water levels. Similarly to 2023, Cerknica polje remained flooded for nearly three months longer than usual, while Planinsko polje was flooded for about one week less than average.