Danube River Hits Record Low, Forces Reduction at Paks Nuclear Power Plant
A prolonged heatwave and lack of rain have caused the water level of the Danube River at Paks to drop to a historic low. This has directly impacted the operation of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, requiring specialists to reduce the output of one reactor unit due to the river’s low water flow.
On July 27, the extreme dry weather broke all previous records for the lowest water level ever measured at Paks. The river’s gauge level fell to minus 106 centimetres, leading to the necessary reduction in the power plant’s output.
The power plant operates under strict environmental regulations. These rules limit the temperature of the water used for cooling the reactors, which is later returned to the Danube. To comply with these regulations and protect the river’s ecosystem, the plant had already reduced its output several times in June and July.
Specifically, on July 27 at 9:45 PM, specialists lowered the output of reactor block No. 1 by 254 megawatts due to the critical water level situation.
The Paks Nuclear Power Plant has emphasised that it continuously monitors the Danube’s water flow and temperature. It adjusts its operations and takes necessary measures based on the current conditions. The primary goals remain ensuring the safe operation of the power plant and fully complying with all environmental protection rules.
- Prolonged heatwave affects water levels
- Record low gauge level at minus 106 cm
- Output reduction of reactor block No. 1
- Continuous monitoring of water flow and temperature
- Compliance with environmental regulations
- Several output reductions in June and July
| Date | Event | Output Reduction |
|---|---|---|
| July 27 | Reduction of reactor block No. 1 | 254 megawatts |
