Romania uses explosives to divert Danube water as drought hits nuclear plant

Romania has used explosives to redirect cooling water from the drought-hit Danube River to its last operating nuclear reactor as record-low water levels threaten energy supplies across eastern Europe.

According to Adevarul newspaper, Romanian naval forces carried out a controlled explosion using 180kg of explosives to remove a large rock blocking the flow of water.

The operation is expected to allow the construction of a temporary dam to channel more water towards the Cernavoda nuclear plant.

Romania has declared a nationwide state of emergency for August after low Danube water levels forced one reactor at the plant to shut down.

"Any day past Wednesday or Thursday that the nuclear power plant functions is a gain," Romania's Defence Minister Radu Miruța said, adding: "A day of it functioning is three times more efficient than the costs of this operation."

Neighbouring Hungary is also facing pressure at its only nuclear power station in Paks, where output has been reduced because of the low river level.

Prime Minister Péter Magyar warned the plant could shut down next week if conditions do not improve.

"An energy crisis situation could arise beginning Monday. Coordinated steps and restraint will be needed to avoid more severe consequences. We are counting on everyone!" Magyar wrote on X.

The Danube remains at historically low levels, with no significant rainfall forecast in the coming weeks, raising further concerns over electricity generation, river transport and water supplies across the region.