Danube river levels force shutdown of Hungary's Paks nuclear power plant

Record low water levels in the Danube River have forced Hungary to shut down its only nuclear power plant, while Romania has also reduced nuclear power generation because of insufficient cooling water.

According to DW, Hungary's Paks nuclear power plant gradually reduced output before shutting down completely on Thursday.

Prime Minister Peter Magyar said: "for the first time in 44 years," the plant would stop operating.

"An energy crisis situation may arise from Monday." He added: "Coordinated steps and self-restraint will be needed to avoid more severe consequences. We are counting on everyone!”, he warned.

DW reported that Romania shut down one reactor at the Cernavoda nuclear power plant earlier this week, while a second reactor remained operational despite concerns over falling river levels.

The unusually low water has also disrupted transport along the Danube. Cargo vessels have largely stopped operating in Hungary, while cruise ships have been forced to change docking locations.

In Romania, authorities said parts of the river have fallen below the minimum level needed for navigation.

The extreme conditions come as Europe experiences one of its hottest summers on record, with prolonged heat contributing to drought across the region.

The falling water levels have also exposed riverbanks and infrastructure in several countries, highlighting the wider impact of the ongoing heatwave.