Extreme weather is drying up some of Europe’s most important rivers as prolonged heat and a lack of rainfall push water levels to record lows. Scientists say the continent’s rivers are shrinking at an alarming rate, disrupting transport, energy production, and tourism while highlighting the growing impacts of climate change.

Satellite images show dramatically reduced waterways cutting through dry landscapes, exposing riverbanks and sandbars that are normally hidden beneath the surface. Compared with 2023, when river flows were close to average, many major rivers have shrunk significantly after months of extreme heat and drought.

Among the worst affected are the Danube and the Rhine. In Hungary, the Danube has dropped to its lowest recorded level, creating serious concerns for electricity production. The Paks nuclear power plant, which relies on the river for cooling, has reduced operations after low water levels forced most of its reactors offline.

Romania is also working to maintain water supplies for its Cernavodǎ nuclear power plant by redirecting water from the Danube. Authorities are planning temporary engineering measures to ensure enough water reaches the facility.

The Rhine, one of Europe’s busiest shipping routes, has also reached critically low levels in Germany. Commercial vessels are carrying much lighter loads to avoid running aground, increasing transport costs and disrupting supply chains. Some river cruises have also been cancelled or altered because of the low water.

As rivers continue to shrink, they are revealing long-hidden historical discoveries, including what is believed to be the remains of an ancient mammoth in Bulgaria and a sunken Nazi warship in Serbia. Other major waterways, including Italy’s Po River and France’s Loire River, are also experiencing exceptionally low levels.

Climate experts warn that these extreme conditions are likely to become more common as global temperatures continue to rise. They say stronger action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve long-term water management will be essential to protect Europe’s rivers, economies and communities from future droughts.