Currently, drought impact monitoring reporters are reporting a lack of precipitation across the entire territory of Slovakia, which, in combination with high air temperatures and wind, is significantly worsening soil moisture conditions. In eastern Slovakia, crop stands are already visibly suffering from a lack of moisture, with phenological phases accelerating and shortening, and potato plants wilting. Forage crops are the most affected by the lack of rainfall. Dry pastures have also been reported near Krupina (Central Slovakia). An increased occurrence of pests, especially aphids, is also a problemIn the Danubian Lowland, reporters are noting problems with cereal crops, which are scorching and drying out before ripening. The Regional Agricultural and Food Chamber (RPPK) Bratislava reports a reduced number of tillers and, consequently, lower yields in both winter and spring barley. Leaf rolling in maize has also been reported in this region, while in some areas of eastern Slovakia, stunted maize stands have been documented, as confirmed by the Slovak Agricultural and Food Chamber (SPPK) in the Vranov nad Topľou district (Eastern Slovakia). Cracks in the soil due to moisture deficits have been reported from several locations across Slovakia. . A drop in groundwater levels is becoming an issue as well.
The lack of rainfall is also evident in the small size of berry fruits, with plants showing poor growth, which negatively affects future yields. Wilting of young fruit trees—plums, peaches, apricots—is observed, along with poorly developed small fruits and the drying out of permanent grasslands.
Very dry conditions have persisted for quite some time, with only brief periods of atmospheric precipitation. Drought symptoms in forest tree species tend to appear later compared to agricultural crops. During dry periods, vegetation attempts to prevent water loss through its leaves by closing stomata. In the case of prolonged and intense drought, such as in 2025, stomata remain closed for extended periods, preventing leaves from performing photosynthesis properly, leading to significant chlorophyll loss and yellowing. As a result, leaves fall prematurely from trees under extreme stress. Tree species particularly sensitive to drought stress include European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), silver birch (Betula pendula L.), and elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.). These species are currently showing signs of trying to prevent further water loss from their trunks and root systems. Repeated premature leaf drop due to drought during the growing season significantly weakens trees and makes them more susceptible to secondary pest infestations. In the past two weeks, foresters have also reported worsening water balance in the Liptov region, which is evident from the decreased water levels in streams and the loss of rich green color in spruce stands. However, this has not yet affected new plantings in the area.
More information and pictures of drought impacts can be found at: https://www.shmu.sk/sk/index.php?page=2049&id=1637
More information:
https://www.shmu.sk/sk/index.php?page=2049&id=1637