Danube's record low levels force shutdown of Hungary's only nuclear plant
Summary
Hungary’s only nuclear power plant, the Paks plant, must shut down because the Danube River’s water level is extremely low and cannot cool the plant. This low water level is part of a heatwave and drought affecting much of Europe, causing energy shortages and other problems along the river.Key Facts
- The Paks nuclear power plant in Hungary relies on Danube water for cooling and must stop operating because the water is too low.
- Hungary faces energy supply risks due to the shutdown and ongoing high temperatures around 37°C (99°F).
- The Danube River, which runs through 19 countries, has reached its lowest water level in 30 years in several places.
- Romania has already shut down one of its two nuclear reactors on the Danube because of low water; shutting down both would stop its nuclear power entirely.
- The heatwave and low rainfall across Europe, especially on the Danube, are linked to climate change and rising temperatures.
- Low Danube water has revealed sunken ships and even mammoth bones, showing how much the river has dropped.
- Shipping on the Danube in Bulgaria has stopped, and a river cruise ship recently ran aground, forcing passenger evacuation.
- Hungary’s prime minister has asked people to reduce energy use during peak times and warned of possible rolling power cuts if needed.
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