Europe’s Rivers Are Drying Up as Heat Records Shatter

Western Europe has just recorded its hottest June and July on record, and the consequences are now visible across the continent. Drought is gripping large parts of the region, leaving soils unusually dry and major rivers running dangerously low. The parched conditions are straining agriculture, shipping, and daily water supplies. Adding to the concern, a strengthening El Niño is expected to push global temperatures even higher later this year. Scientists warn that this could worsen the current dry spell and set new heat records before 2023 ends. For now, authorities are urging residents and industries to conserve water as the continent braces for more extreme weather.