Hungary shuts down only nuclear plant as Danube hits record low after heatwaves
Prolonged drought and successive heatwaves in Europe have triggered an energy crisis, forcing Hungary for the first time ever to halt operations at its only nuclear power station as Danube water levels fell to a record low.
Hungary has announced the shutdown of its only nuclear power plant for the first time in history, after water levels in the Danube River dropped to a record low. The plant relies on river water to cool its reactors, and the shortage posed a threat to its safe operation. The decision comes amid a broader energy crisis across Europe, intensified by prolonged drought and extreme heat.
The rare move highlights the growing impact of climate-related extreme weather on critical infrastructure. Successive heatwaves this year have combined with a lack of rainfall to lower river levels across the region. The Danube, one of Europe's major waterways, has now reached a historic low, making it impossible for the nuclear facility to continue operating normally. Authorities said the shutdown was necessary to avoid potential safety risks.
It remains unclear how long the plant will remain offline. The disruption creates a significant challenge for Hungary, as the nuclear station provides a substantial share of the country's electricity. This situation underscores the vulnerability of Europe's energy system to climate change and raises questions about the need for more resilient power sources. The energy crisis already affecting many parts of Europe is likely to deepen as extreme weather events become more frequent, forcing governments to adapt both their energy policies and infrastructure planning.
