Record low water levels force nuclear output cuts in Hungary and Romania

The closures increase dependence on imported power at a time when the grid is already under strain.

Hungary's Paks nuclear plant, which provides nearly half the country's power, may shut down within days as Danube water levels hit record lows. PM Péter Magyar says supply remains secure.

Historically low water levels along Europe's second-longest river have led Hungary and Romania to reduce output at key nuclear plants. Danube tourism and river cargo have also been severely affected by Europe's heatwave.

30 July 2026 Romania has shut down both reactors at the Cernavodă nuclear power plant after the Danube's water level fell to exceptionally low levels due to severe drought, taking offline a facility that normally supplies around one-fifth of the country's electricity. Interim prime minister Ilie Bolojan urged household