Parts of Germany's Rhine becoming unnavigable as water levels drop

Parts of Germany's Rhine river could become unnavigable due to record low water levels, according to an industry group warning on Monday. Germany, like much of Europe, is grappling with a series of heatwaves and low rainfall that have caused the river to reach a record low since the end of July. While cargo ships have been able to transport goods along the waterway, the Rhine's BDB association of inland shipping warned that the water level at Kaub, a reference point for vessels, is expected to fall further this week.

Managing director Jens Schwanen said commercial shipping will no longer be able to transport goods in the region if water levels continue to drop. This would effectively divide the Rhine in two, with shipping continuing in the Netherlands and Germany up to Cologne, and further south along several tributaries. The WSV agency managing German waterways stated water levels are expected to continue falling, but there are no current bans on shipping, and individual captains will decide how to adjust their cargoes.

The German government is closely monitoring the situation and considering assistance for companies relying on river transport, including the chemical and oil sectors. This situation could significantly impact Germany's economy, which is already facing challenges from the Iran war, energy surge, and US tariffs.