Rhine falls to record low levels as drought strains Europe's rivers
Record-breaking heatwaves have caused water levels in major European rivers like the Rhine and Danube to drop to historic lows. This drought is severely impacting inland shipping and raising concerns about economic fallout across the continent.
Why it matters
Low river levels threaten critical supply chains and industrial transport, exacerbating the economic strain caused by climate-driven weather patterns.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The Rhine fell to its lowest ever levels at points in Germany and the Netherlands as heatwave conditions continue
The River Rhine has fallen to record low levels in several locations in Germany and the Netherlands as prolonged heatwaves continue across Europe.
Last week, levels were measured in Cologne in western Germany and in Lobith, where the Rhine crosses from Germany into the Netherlands, that were lower than at any point since records began.
Other major European rivers with important transport, industrial and agricultural functions have also seen record low levels, including the Danube, which flows through 10 countries, and Italy's Po river.
Drought conditions remained stable and critical in most of Europe and worsened in central-western Europe in mid-July, according to the EU's Drought Observatories.
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