Germany news: Some shipping stops as Rhine hits new lows
The summer heat is not only causing water levels in Germany's key river arteries to drop to dangerously low levels, but also contributing to wildfires in several areas. Follow DW for more.
Germany is grappling with unprecedented low water levels on the Rhine, a crucial transportation route, prompting some shipping companies to halt operations. On August 8, 2025, the gauge at Kaub, close to Koblenz, registered an alarming low of 15 cm (5.9 inches), marking the lowest point ever recorded. A commodity trader revealed that shipments beyond Kaub are no longer being booked, with most sailings on the river's southern sections already suspended.
Nonetheless, northern sections of the river continue to operate, albeit with significantly lighter loads and higher costs. This situation is attributed to an intense heatwave and prolonged drought, which is not only damaging the environment but also causing economic setbacks for businesses reliant on river transport. Even an endurance swimmer, Nathalie Pohl, who aims to swim 200 kilometers from Frankfurt to Cologne, has expressed concern over the weakened current due to low water levels.
Despite warnings from German authorities, Pohl and her team insist they have a robust safety plan in place. The Rhine, a vital waterway since Roman times, is primarily used for transporting industrial goods. However, its current state of 80% reduced capacity could lead to reduced production and increased transport costs, potentially impacting industries that depend on these goods.
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