The Drought of 2018–2019 in the Lusatian Neisse River Catchment in Relation to the Multiannual Conditions

The drought event of 2018–2019 significantly affected most Central Europe. In this study, the development and intensity in Lusatian Neisse river catchment were evaluated, based on indices SPI, SPEI, low flow periods related to hydrological drought. Furthermore, multiannual variability indices, as well trends for air temperature precipitation totals, examined 1981–2020. catchment, deficit was noticed from autumn 2017 spring 2020, additionally accompanied by a high thermal anomaly. summer seasons, heat waves occurred, which intensified evaporation increased water deficit. meteorological already appeared 2018, developed following months, became more intensive. frequency days with discharges >Q70% exceeded 55%. According SPI12 SPEI12, episode can be assessed longest period severe whole caused various consequences region. deterioration quality selected biological one effects. sector agriculture, yield reduction corn wheat amounted 33% 18% 2018 22% 9% 2019. addition, decrease hydropower generation than 30% noticed.