World’s rivers hit crisis point: 2025 was one of the driest years in decades

A new report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) says rivers worldwide faced one of their driest years in more than 30 years during 2025. The finding comes as the Guardian launches “Our Rivers,” a year-long project on the threats facing waterways around the world. Rivers are essential to life. They supply drinking water, support farming, carry trade, and provide habitats for many species. People often give them powerful names, such as “the great river,” “the river that swallows all rivers,” “Mother Ganga,” and “Old father Thames.” But many rivers are now under severe environmental pressure. The WMO report shows that rivers across the world are struggling with drought and other climate-related problems. The Guardian project will examine these issues throughout the year. It will also look at related environmental stories, including recent research on deadly floods in Nepal and Tibet, the motives behind French wildfires, and efforts by public figures such as Benedict Cumberbatch to raise awareness about protecting the planet.