Danube, Drava, and Sava river levels at historic lows; drought threatens water supply

Croatia is grappling with an unprecedented hydrological crisis, as prolonged drought and extreme heat have driven river levels to historic lows. Hydrologists warn that the country is already experiencing the impacts of climate change, characterized by extended dry spells, rising temperatures, and drastic fluctuations in water levels.

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The water levels of the Sava, Drava, and Danube have been falling in recent days to levels not remembered at some measuring stations for more than a century.

The Danube, Drava, and Sava rivers have reached levels not seen in over a century at some monitoring stations. The situation is particularly critical on the Danube at Batina, where a record low of approximately -142 centimeters was recorded, surpassing a previous record from 1909. Similarly, the Drava at Osijek registered a new absolute minimum of around -192 centimeters, nearly twenty centimeters lower than the 2022 record. The Sava also shows extremely low water levels throughout its course in Croatia.

Experts caution that without significant and sustained rainfall, a substantial recovery of water levels is unlikely. The consequences of this hydrological drought extend far beyond the appearance of riverbeds. Rivers are crucial for drinking water supply, agricultural irrigation, electricity generation, river transport, and maintaining numerous natural habitats. Extremely low water levels increase pollutant concentration, raise water temperatures, decrease dissolved oxygen, and place immense pressure on fish populations and other aquatic organisms.

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The most dramatic situation is on the Danube in Batina, where a water level of about -142 centimeters was measured, breaking a record dating back to 1909.

If the dry period continues, the effects could become even more severe. Smaller rivers might dry up completely, leading to mass fish die-offs and permanent damage to sensitive river ecosystems. Water availability for crop irrigation would further decrease, and some areas could face water supply issues during peak summer demand. The Orljava River near Požega is of particular concern, with experts warning it could nearly dry up in sections if the drought persists, severely impacting flora, fauna, agriculture, and water quality in the entire basin.

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If the dry period continues, the consequences could be even more serious. Smaller watercourses could dry up completely, causing fish kills and permanently damaging sensitive river ecosystems.

Zoran Đuroković, Director-General of Hrvatske Vode (Croatian Waters), highlighted that this prolonged low-water period is reaching historical proportions. He noted the record-breaking low levels on the Danube and Drava, emphasizing the vulnerability of smaller rivers to pollution under such conditions. While the water supply for the population remains stable for now, a single heavy summer downpour will not be enough to restore the watercourses after months of drought.

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This is a long-term low-water period that is taking on historical proportions.