Hungary’s Prime Minister Péter Magyar warned that the country’s sole nuclear power station is on the verge of shutdown due to record-low water levels in parts of the Danube River. The expected closure of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant would be its first since the facility came online 44 years ago and risks a widespread energy crisis.

Energy Crisis Looms

The plant produces nearly half of the country’s electricity, and its shutdown could have severe consequences. Water from the Danube is used to cool the facility, and the low water levels have raised concerns about the plant’s ability to operate safely.

Magyar said that the next few days would be critical, and the country is taking steps to reduce energy consumption. The energy supply is currently stable, but the situation is being closely monitored.

Regional Impact

The heatwave is not limited to Hungary, and other European countries are also experiencing extreme temperatures and droughts. In Romania, authorities are attempting to divert water from parts of the Danube to one of the country’s key nuclear power plants. The situation is being described as unprecedented, with severe drought and heatwaves affecting the region.

Experts warn that the energy crisis could have far-reaching consequences, including disruptions to essential services and economic activity. The situation is being closely watched, and efforts are being made to mitigate the impact of the heatwave and the potential energy crisis.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.