In Romania, the military used explosives to try and clear rocks blocking the Danube River. Their goal was to send more water to the Cernavoda nuclear power plant. This happened because of a severe drought and high temperatures affecting Central and Eastern Europe. The Danube River, which flows through ten countries, has very low water levels. In Romania, the river's flow is less than a third of its usual amount for this time of year.
Nuclear power plants need a lot of water to cool their reactors. Without enough water, they cannot operate safely. In Hungary, the Paks nuclear facility had to reduce its power output significantly. This plant provides half of Hungary's electricity. The Prime Minister warned that the situation was serious and that the country had to take steps to save energy, like limiting industrial power use.
Romania also declared an energy emergency. The Cernavoda plant had to shut down one of its two units. Romania has asked Ukraine for electricity to help stabilize its power grid. Neighboring countries like Serbia are also affected, with hydroelectric dams producing much less power. Serbia has asked citizens to use less electricity, especially by turning off air conditioners, as temperatures remain very high.
The Danube's water level has dropped to record lows, affecting river transport and even revealing historical items like a sunken World War II ship. Officials say this drought is the worst they have seen in decades. Engineers are trying to redirect the remaining water, but rain is not expected soon. The Danube River, important for trade and history, now shows how climate change affects essential infrastructure.