Jakarta, ThedailyID — The Rhine River in Germany has fallen to a record low as a heatwave continues to affect parts of Europe.
Data from Germany’s Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSV) showed that the water level at Kaub, near Koblenz, fell to just 6 centimeters on Friday night, August 14.
The level rose slightly to 8 centimeters on Saturday morning, August 15. However, it remained well below the previous record low of 25 centimeters recorded in 2018.
The reading at Kaub serves as an indicator of local river conditions. The actual depth of the Rhine at the location remains about one meter deeper than the gauge reading.
The water level at Kaub last remained above 78 centimeters in mid-July. According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, industrial production could fall by around 1 percent if levels remain below 78 centimeters for 30 consecutive days.
Similar conditions occurred in 2018 and 2022.
The Rhine is one of Europe’s most important transportation routes. It carries chemicals, commodities, fuel and other goods across the region.
However, falling water levels have forced much of the cargo transportation to shift to trucks and trains.
Several German companies have already reported disruptions linked to the low water levels. Chemical producers, utility companies, steelmakers and agricultural commodity traders face higher transportation costs and potential production losses.
The worsening conditions add pressure to Germany’s economy as the European heatwave continues to affect infrastructure and industrial activity.
