Rhine water levels fall to new low as Germany’s drought hits shipping

Water levels fall to below 40cm on parts of key route for transporting fuel, wheat and other commodities

The levels of the Rhine River fell to a new low on Friday due to the ongoing drought in Germany and elsewhere in Europe, further restricting the distribution of coal, petrol, wheat and other commodities amid a looming energy crisis.

The water level at Kaub near Frankfurt - a key waypoint where the fairway is shallower than elsewhere on the river - fell below 40cm on Friday afternoon, the level at which it is no longer economical for many barges to transit the river.