The Danube's flow at the entrance to Romania (Bazias section) is expected to decline to 1,400 cubic metres per second in the coming days, close to the historic low recorded in 1985, and remain relatively stable at that level until Aug. 9, according to the National Institute of Hydrology and Water Management (INHGA).
The multiannual average flow for August is 3,900 cubic metres per second, according to Agerpres.
According to the National Administration Romanian Waters (ANAR), the Danube's water level near Cernavoda is currently falling by about 2-3 centimetres a day. Under the current conditions, the Cernavoda nuclear power plant can continue operating at the limit for another four to five days.
Deputy Director General of ANAR Sorin Rindasu said the authorities have launched emergency measures to maintain water flow towards the Cernavoda intake, including the controlled sinking of stone-filled barges at predetermined locations to redirect water from the Bala branch into the Old Danube channel.
Interim Prime Minister and Energy Minister Ilie Bolojan announced on Friday a nationwide state of alert for August due to declining electricity production caused by severe drought and exceptionally low river flows, particularly on the Danube.
The government has allocated 7 million lei to the Lower Danube River Administration to carry out emergency works aimed at maintaining the operation of Unit 2 at the Cernavoda nuclear power plant. Authorities are also preparing voluntary electricity demand reduction measures during evening peak hours to help ensure the stability of the national power system.
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