Danube River levels: Critically low values and shipping restrictions

19.08.2026 | Oversight and accountability

The hydrological situation on the Danube River remains complex. The PPD-RD agency reports a stagnation and slight decline in water levels, with draft restrictions for vessels remaining in place.

Снимка от Adam63, Wikimedia Commons, под лиценз CC BY-SA 2.0

Current status of the Danube River as of August 19

The hydrological situation along the Bulgarian section of the Danube River remains complex and dynamic. According to data from the Executive Agency for Exploration and Maintenance of the Danube River (EAEMDR), minimal changes in water levels have been recorded over the last 24 hours.

Water levels at Ruse, Novo Selo, and Nikopol remain unchanged, while a drop of 1 to 3 cm has been registered at the other hydrometric stations.

Navigation restrictions

Historical context

The situation in the region is critical, with the water level of the river near Galati (Romania) dropping to 16 cm – the lowest value in 30 years, surpassing even the levels of 1996 (17 cm). The River Supervision Directorate continues to monitor the situation in real time.