Environment and Energy
Rhine River Hits Record Low Water Level, Disruptions Expected
The Rhine River's barge clearance level at Kaub dropped to 21 centimeters overnight, the lowest since records began in 1880, with forecasts pointing to a further drop to 17 centimeters by Saturday. Freight rates have surged as shipping costs from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe reached their highest level since 2009. The Institute for the World Economy estimates persistently low water levels could reduce Germany's GDP by between 0.1% and 0.2% between July and September.
