Record-low Danube exposes sandbanks, strands boats in Serbia

Aerial footage shows the Danube River in northern Serbia transformed by record-low water levels, with large sandbanks emerging near Apatin and Bezdan. Boats sit on exposed parts of the river, while a small marina has been left dry and cargo vessels remain stranded.

The drought has pushed sections of the Danube to historically low levels, disrupting traffic along one of Europe's main waterways. Some newly exposed sandbanks have become temporary beaches, with people walking across the dry riverbed and using the shallow water for recreation. However, the low levels are creating serious problems for shipping, with some cargo vessels unable to move for days.

Falling water levels are also affecting Serbia's hydropower production capacity. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as the drought puts pressure on transport, energy production and communities living along the Danube.