Warminsko-Mazurskie Voivodship
Poland
 "Warminsko-Mazurskie Voivodship Landscape")
© Warminsko-Mazurskie Voivodship
About the region
Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship is in northeastern Poland and has a population of over 1.4 million people.
“A land shaped by water and time – resilience rooted in the landscapes of Warmia and Mazury.”
Main climate risks
Coastal floods
The Voivodeship faces significant risks from coastal flooding, particularly due to its proximity to the Baltic Sea and the presence of numerous lakes and rivers. It is vulnerable to rising sea levels and increased storm surge activity [1]. Coastal infrastructure is at risk of damage from flooding with the low-lying areas near coastal barrier lakes are particularly susceptible [2]. While there are flood defences in place, such as levees and dikes, their effectiveness is may be challenged by extreme weather events.
Droughts
The Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship has been increasingly affected by drought, posing serious challenges to agriculture. In summer 2024, high temperatures and low rainfall led to significant water deficits, reducing yields of cereals and fruit bushes [3]. Limited irrigation and high evaporation worsened the situation [4]. Existing water management efforts may be insufficient for severe droughts [5].
Focus during Pathways2Resilience
During P2R, Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship aims to support development of regional pathways, plans and innovation portfolios towards climate resilience building on existing trends and projections of climate change risks in the region.
Interesting highlights
Warmia and Mazury: a region embracing climate resilience. Often called the “Land of a Thousand Lakes”, Warmia and Mazury is one of the most water-rich regions in Poland, with over 2,000 lakes, vast wetlands, and forest ecosystems. This natural richness makes the region a key area for climate resilience and water resource protection.
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© Warminsko-Mazurskie Voivodship
-Biodiversity & Ecosystems: Large areas are part of the Natura 2000 network, supporting biodiversity and enabling ecosystem-based climate adaptation strategies.
-Water Management: In the Masurian Lake District, the region is investing in modern sewage systems and water quality monitoring to address growing risks of drought and water scarcity.
-Flood Protection: Along the Vistula Lagoon, enhanced flood protection infrastructure is being developed to safeguard both ecology and the local economy against storm surges and sea-level rise.
-Renewable Energy in Olsztyn: The regional capital, Olsztyn, is advancing its energy transition by promoting solar energy on public and residential buildings, aiming for a more sustainable and climate-resilient urban future.
-Sustainable Forestry: sustainable forest management includes introducing climate-resilient tree species like Scots pine and oak to preserve forest health amid climate pressures.
-Climate-Smart Agriculture: In Warmia and Mazury, farmers are encouraged to adopt drought-resistant crops and water-efficient irrigation techniques to address changing weather patterns.
Regional Resilience Journey
Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship region has medium readiness for all three RRJ steps.
Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship region has the highest capacities in Capabilities and Skills.
Key community systems priority areas
Land use and food systems
Climate proofing of critical public infrastructure
Key enabling conditions priority areas
Governance, engagement and collaboration
Behavioural change