Magdeburg Ferry Resumes Service as Elbe River Water Levels Rise

The Gierseil ferry connecting Westerhüsen and Kreuzhorst in Magdeburg is once again operational, thanks to a rise in the Elbe River's water level.

On Wednesday, the water level at the Strombrücke gauge measured 73 centimeters. This increase marks a recovery from critically low levels, though it remains considerably below the average of 157 centimeters recorded between 2010 and 2020. The region experienced a historic low of 45 centimeters in 2019, a mark that has since been surpassed this year, though a new official record for low water has not yet been declared.

The ferry service, operated by Magdeburger Verkehrsbetriebe, is crucial for local transport, carrying pedestrians, dogs, bicycles, and agricultural vehicles when needed. Its resumption is a welcome development for residents who rely on the connection between the two Magdeburg districts.