Water levels in Latvian rivers rising faster than Liepāja tram ticket prices

Latvian meteorologists this week discovered that water levels in several of the country's rivers have risen by one to 2.6 meters, which only causes amazement in Liepāja. While the Lielupe, Venta and Bārta rivers try to imitate our sea, Liepāja's tram continues to safely ride on its tracks, not even thinking about swimming.

Currently, ice breakup across Latvia is happening so slowly that even our tram, which usually isn't a speed record holder, seems like a Formula 1 car. "Look, kid, we've been riding these tracks for 30 years, and no ice has stopped us," comments tram driver Gunārs, who previously worked in Karosta. "If the river ice can't break up properly, let them take our experience."

Forecasters warn that in the coming days lower areas and floodplains will flood, but in Liepāja we've known for years how to live with water around us. While Riga nervously counts centimeters and plans evacuations, our tram continues to ride its route as if nothing has happened. Maybe because we already have experience with the elements — when you live by the sea, various water levels are everyday life.

Kurzeme's small rivers promise that their water levels will soon decrease, but Liepāja's tram isn't worried in the slightest. "We're not dependent on water levels," laughs conductor Jānis. "Our tracks are above ground, and if needed, we can also transport life jackets."