Europe's Rhine River Shrinks to Record Low, Paralyzing Transport

The water level of the Rhine River in Germany continues to shrink, hitting a record low amid the heatwave sweeping across Europe. Data from the German Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSV) shows the water level at Kaub, near Koblenz, fell to just 6 centimetres on Saturday evening (15/8). On Saturday morning, the water level at that point stood at 8 centimetres. That figure is lower than the previous record of 25 centimetres recorded in 2018. However, the actual depth of the Rhine is around one metre deeper than the gauge reading. The Kaub gauge is traditionally used as an indicator of local river conditions. According to Reuters, the Rhine is one of Europe’s most important transport routes. The river is used to carry chemicals, commodities, fuel and various other goods. The receding water levels have forced most freight to be diverted to trucks and trains.