Extreme heatwave brings record low river levels and wildfires to Europe

Record-breaking heat and persistent drought continue to impact Europe, pushing temperatures toward 39 degrees Celsius and causing severe hydrological and environmental disruptions.

In Germany, water levels along the Rhine River at Kaub have dropped to their lowest point since 1880. Lowered water levels along the Danube have exposed submerged shipwrecks and historic artifacts, while commercial shipping routes face severe restrictions. Meteorological agencies across Central Europe have warned of incoming severe thunderstorms alongside the high temperatures.

Wildfires persist across Southwestern Europe, with major blazes in France, Spain, and Portugal halting local tourism, particularly near Bordeaux. Further north, firefighters responded to a large blaze in the Netherlands near the German border. Meanwhile, Italian health authorities elevated all 27 major cities to the highest heat alert level, designating the conditions as a health risk for the general population.

Sources: Der Spiegel, DW, FAZ, ORF, Tagesschau