Rhine falls to record low levels as drought strains Europe's rivers

Key Points:

• The River Rhine has reached record low water levels in Germany and the Netherlands due to ongoing heatwaves, with measurements in Cologne and Lobith hitting unprecedented lows since records began.
• Other major European rivers, including the Danube and Italy's Po, are also experiencing historic low levels, impacting transport, industry, agriculture, and energy production across multiple countries.
• The drought situation remains critical across much of Europe, particularly in central-western regions, with temperatures forecasted to exceed 40°C for at least another week, exacerbating water shortages.
• Low water levels on the Rhine, especially at the Kaub gauging station, are forcing shipping authorities to reduce cargo loads to prevent vessel damage, raising concerns about economic disruptions in inland shipping.
• Energy production is affected as Hungary shut down its only nuclear power plant due to low Danube water levels, Serbia reduced coal plant output, and Romania took emergency measures to maintain cooling water flow, while Italy's Po River drought threatens drinking water supplies and agricultural irrigation.