Record low river levels in Europe threaten shipping and agriculture

Water levels in Europe’s major rivers continue to decline sharply due to prolonged heat and drought. The Danube in Serbia, Hungary, and Romania has fallen to its lowest level in 30 years, while parts of the Rhine have dropped below the record lows recorded during the extreme summer of 1976. Forecasts suggest there will be no significant improvement in the near future.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić warned that navigation on the Danube could come to a complete halt within days. According to him, vessels are already forced to reduce their draft by about 50% to pass through shallow sections of the river. Low water levels are also disrupting operations at Serbia’s only oil refinery in Pančevo, which faces the risk of a shutdown.

The drought is also increasingly affecting agriculture. Critically low water levels in Italy’s Po River are limiting irrigation across large agricultural areas, while declining soil moisture is increasing the risk of lower crop yields. Meanwhile, more than 100 cities and districts in Germany have introduced water use restrictions due to drought and water shortages.

The disruption to inland navigation is already affecting Europe’s economy. Cargo vessels are unable to operate at full capacity, and shipping on some river sections could be suspended entirely. This is increasing transport costs and creating additional risks for the movement of raw materials, fuel, and agricultural commodities.

Analysts warn that if exceptionally low river levels persist, Europe could face further increases in transportation costs and growing pressure on the agricultural sector. Reduced river navigation and worsening irrigation conditions could contribute to higher food prices and additional disruptions to regional supply chains.