Bucht der kleinen Ostsee-Insel Poel, Germany — April 22, 2026
A 12-meter-long whale stranded near the small Baltic Sea island of Poel has not moved overnight, with live streams capturing its labored breathing as rescuers race against time and shifting tides.
Rescue Efforts and Observations
The whale, visible on live streams, has been observed moving its back and breathing, though it remains stuck in shallow waters. A specialized whale rescue team is on-site, monitoring the animal’s condition and attempting to guide it back to deeper waters. The Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie (Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency) reported that the current water level is 20 centimeters below normal, complicating rescue efforts.
By midday, the water level is expected to rise by approximately 15 centimeters before dropping again in the evening. These tidal fluctuations are critical for determining the best window to assist the stranded whale. The rescue team, led by Ibrahim Kayed, is coordinating with local authorities to maximize their chances of success.
Environmental and Logistical Challenges
The whale’s location in the shallow bay of Poel presents significant challenges. The area, part of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, is known for its fluctuating tides, which can both aid and hinder rescue operations. The Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie emphasized the importance of timing, as the whale’s survival depends on reaching deeper waters during high tide.