The Guardian | UK
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Destroyed crops, riverbed cyclists and a ‘Rock of Starvation’: how drought has devastated the Danube
The Danube, Europe's longest river, is experiencing record-low water levels. This phenomenon has led to the emergence of the "Rock of Starvation" near Budapest, a boulder historically signifying drought and famine. The rock's full surfacing, along with the sandy riverbed, is astonishing scientists. These low water levels have triggered an energy crisis in Hungary. The country has had to shut down all but one of its Danube-cooled nuclear reactors. This is the first time this has happened in 44 years. The low water levels pose a significant challenge for water availability. Some residents are struggling to secure drinking water. The rock's reappearance serves as a stark reminder of ecological and societal vulnerabilities. The situation highlights the severe impact of climate change on vital water resources.