Danube crisis forces Hungary's sole nuclear plant to shut down

Hungary's only nuclear power plant, Paks, is facing a complete shutdown because of record low water levels in the Danube River, Reuters reported. The plant's output had already dropped to about 10 percent of its capacity by Sunday. Extreme heat in Central Europe has caused the Danube to dry up, affecting the reactors' cooling systems. Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar announced on X that the plant's production would fall to just 240 megawatts before a full shutdown on Monday, the first in 44 years. Paks normally supplies a significant portion of Hungary's electricity. With temperatures expected to reach around 40 degrees Celsius in the coming days, the national power grid faces further strain. The Hungarian government is urging businesses, public institutions, and households to reduce their electricity use during evening peak hours (5 PM to 10 PM) and is considering mandatory restrictions for major companies starting Monday. The low water levels have also impacted shipping, tourism, and water supply, with restrictions imposed in over 100 towns and villages. Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico stated his country is monitoring the situation and willing to assist if needed. Meanwhile, the heatwave and drought have fueled large wildfires in Greece and France.

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As a consequence, the plant's production will drop to just 240 megawatts, and tomorrow it will be completely shut down for the first time in 44 years.