The Rhine River has recorded its lowest water flow under normal conditions, as prolonged drought across western Europe raises concerns over shipping, agriculture and industry.
The river’s average discharge at Lobith in the Netherlands dropped to 614 cubic meters per second over the past 24 hours, surpassing the previous record of 620 cubic meters per second set in 1947.
The earlier record was recorded on Nov. 4, making the latest decline particularly unusual as the new low has been reached much earlier in the year.
Jan Verkade, a hydrometeorologist at Deltares and the Dutch water authority Rijkswaterstaat, told Dutch broadcaster NOS that unusually warm weather and a lack of rainfall were responsible for the sharp decrease.
He said exceptionally warm spring conditions caused snow in Switzerland to melt around three months earlier than usual, while the continued absence of rainfall further reduced the Rhine’s flow.
The river typically carries about 2,000 cubic meters of water per second at this time of year.
As a major European transport route, the Rhine is already experiencing disruptions to inland shipping. Vessels are unable to operate at full capacity because of the risk of running aground, while some waterways, including the Delftse Schie and Twentekanaal, have been closed.
Germany’s inland shipping association BDB has warned that navigation between Koblenz and Mainz could soon become impossible if water levels near Kaub decline further.
The drought is also placing pressure on agriculture, industry and ecosystems. Water quality is worsening in several areas, while restrictions on water extraction are causing difficulties for farmers and market gardeners.
The Rhine’s lowest-ever recorded discharge was 575 cubic meters per second in February 1929, when ice blocked the river.
Verkade said the current flow could potentially fall below that level, warning that the discharge may decline further in the coming weeks.
Climate researchers have warned that climate change is increasing the likelihood of extreme drought across Europe while also contributing to more intense periods of heavy rainfall.
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