Disasters & Accidents

Rhine level hits record low at Dutch entry point

The Hague, Netherlands, Aug 18 (EFE).- The level of the Rhine fell on Thursday to its lowest ever recorded in August at Lobith, where the river enters the Netherlands, according to Dutch infrastructure agency Rijkswaterstaat.

The water level fell to 6.48 meters above normal water level in Amsterdam (NAP), the agency said. The figure is the lowest ever recorded in August, when levels usually reach an average of 8.30 meters above NAP.

The lowest level ever recorded to date was 6.49 meters, on 29 October 2018. Water levels of the Rhine usually drop in the fall, when water from the Alps no longer flows to the river.

The unusually low levels of the Rhine are a result of high temperatures and a lack of rainfall across Europe that have caused a severe drought in the region.

Dutch authorities have warned that the rainfall expected in the next few days will not be enough to reduce the water shortage.

The lack of water is affecting several regions across the Netherlands which are struggling to meet the demands of water for drinking and agriculture.

The situation on one of Europe’s most important waterways has also complicated the transport of raw materials and fuels, a critical issue amid a looming energy crisis, as barges have remained stranded on the river due to decreasing water levels. EFE

ir/mp

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