Drought exposes 82-year-old sunken warship in Danube River: Photo Essay [The One Shot] (Korean title: [더 한장] 가뭄이 끌어올린 82년 전 군함 - Drought-lifted 82-year-old warship [The One Shot])
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A severe drought has caused water levels in the Danube River to drop significantly.
- The receding waters have exposed the wreckage of a German warship that was scuttled 82 years ago.
- The exposed shipwreck is located in Serbia, near the port of Prahovo.
Extreme heat and drought have caused water levels in the Danube River to plummet, revealing the submerged remains of a German warship scuttled during World War II. The dramatic exposure of the vessel, which sank 82 years ago, is a stark visual consequence of the ongoing severe weather conditions affecting the region.
The shipwreck, located in the Serbian section of the Danube near the port of Prahovo, is one of hundreds of vessels sunk by the German Black Sea Fleet in 1944 as they retreated from the advancing Soviet forces. These sunken ships have historically posed navigational hazards, particularly during periods of low water.
As the Danube's water levels continue to drop due to the persistent heatwave and drought, the exposed hulks are becoming more visible. This particular warship, along with others, has become a significant obstacle for river traffic, forcing authorities to consider costly salvage operations. The exposed wreckage also serves as a potent reminder of the wartime history embedded within the riverbed.
Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.