Μake us preferred on GoogleThe Rhine and Danube rivers have become symbols of Europe’s worsening drought conditions, as prolonged dry weather and extreme heat disrupt shipping, energy production and tourism across central Europe. More than 6,500 vessels travel along the river every day, making it the world’s second-largest river transport route by volume after the Mississippi River. However, prolonged drought and heat have caused water levels to fall sharply, bringing parts of the river’s commercial traffic to a near standstill. Tributaries feeding the Rhine also remain affected by low water levels, further worsening the situation. The popular holiday destination has seen water levels decline significantly, with areas where visitors once swam now accessible on foot.