Overview

• Persistent drought has left Dömitz harbor virtually dry, halting all commercial, recreational and police vessel operations.
• The Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration forecasts a harbor depth of just four centimeters, the lowest level since August 2018.
• Although the main channel still holds about two meters of water, shallow access prevents freight and ferry services from resuming.
• Slight water level increases expected by week’s end are insufficient to reopen the harbor or restart navigation.
• Local stakeholders are urging the Czech Republic to open dams to release water and help alleviate the drought-induced shipping crisis.