Dry Danube River threatens nuclear power in Romania, Hungary

Central and eastern European countries are grappling with power shortages and industry impacts due to prolonged hot and dry weather, coupled with record low levels on the Danube River and other waterways. Hungary narrowly avoided shutting down its sole nuclear plant, but had reduced its output to a mere fraction of capacity. Romania's navy detonated an exposed rock in the Danube's riverbed to improve water flow for the Cernavoda nuclear plant, which provides about one-fifth of the country's power.

If the partial diversion of water proves unsuccessful, the plant may have to shut down entirely by Thursday. Car manufacturers Dacia and Ford have suspended production in Romania until August 19 due to the energy crisis. In Hungary, the Paks nuclear power plant, typically generating nearly half of the nation's electricity, was operating at less than 10% capacity.

Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar stated that while the network remained stable, consumption was well below planned levels due to self-restraint. Serbian Prime Minister Djuro Macut convened an emergency meeting to address the energy issues, requesting residents to minimize electricity usage, particularly for large consumers such as air conditioners.

In Bavaria, the Danube's low levels were also affecting freight transport, with German Transport Minister Steffen Bilger expressing concern about the early onset of low water conditions, which might persist for several more weeks.