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Record-low Danube River levels put Hungary's only nuclear plant on brink of shutting down

Updated on: August 5, 2026 / 12:17 PM EDT / CBS News

Record-low Danube River levels put Hungary's only nuclear plant on brink of shutting down

TL;DR

  • The Danube River is at record low levels across eastern Europe due to a prolonged drought.
  • Hungary's Paks nuclear power plant, which generates roughly 50% of the country's electricity, is facing a potential shutdown.
  • Three of the plant's four reactors are offline, and one is operating at reduced capacity.
  • Unlike plants in other countries, Paks relies on direct water intake from the Danube for cooling.
  • Prime Minister Péter Magyar has called for national unity and power conservation measures.
  • Government buildings have had lights turned off, and citizens are urged to limit appliance use during peak hours.
  • Hungary is increasing electricity imports from neighboring countries to offset potential losses.
  • Europe is experiencing the fastest warming trend globally, with eastern and central Europe showing significant temperature increases.