Germany has seen back-to-back heatwaves this summer while rain has been relatively sparse. Now historically low water levels are disrupting shipping lanes while cities urge residents to reduce water use.
Paul Krantz - paul.krantz@thelocal.com
Updated: Fri 7 Aug 2026 12:43 CET
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A fairway mark (river buoy) lies on dry land. The Rhine has receded very sharply near Nierstein due to the low water. Photo: picture alliance/dpa | Andreas Arnold
Germany has seen back-to-back heatwaves this summer while rain has been relatively sparse. Now historically low water levels are disrupting shipping lanes while cities urge residents to reduce water use.
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