Hungary’s Only Nuclear Plant Shuts Down as Danube Hits Record Low

A severe drought has dropped the Danube River to record low levels, forcing Hungary to shut down its only nuclear power plant. The plant, which relies on the river for cooling, cannot operate safely without sufficient water flow. The shutdown adds to a growing crisis across the region. Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia are also struggling with the effects of prolonged heatwaves and scarce rainfall. Low water levels are disrupting shipping, irrigation, and power generation in multiple countries. Officials have not yet said when the plant might restart. The situation highlights the vulnerability of energy infrastructure to extreme weather linked to climate change.