Nazi ships from WWII reappear in Danube River after summer drought

Following a severe summer drought, numerous sunken Nazi ships from World War II have resurfaced in the River Danube, particularly near the Serbian town of Prahovo. These German vessels, which were scuttled in 1944 to obstruct the advancing Red Army, remain laden with explosives, posing significant risks to navigation and local drinking water supplies. The Danube's water levels have fluctuated drastically over the years, with record lows exposing these historical wrecks. In 2022, similar occurrences were noted as drought conditions persisted, leading to navigational challenges for vessels traversing the river. The German military had occupied the Western Balkans during the war, and as they retreated, they intentionally sank their ships to prevent them from being captured by Soviet forces. This tactic aimed to create obstacles in the river, but it resulted in a long-term environmental and navigational hazard. The ships have remained largely undisturbed for nearly eight decades, but the recent drought has made them visible once again. Efforts to remove these vessels are underway, but the presence of unexploded ordnance complicates the process. Serbian officials estimate that it will take approximately a year and a half to clear the river of these remnants of war. The situation highlights the ongoing impact of historical events on contemporary infrastructure and safety. As captains navigate the Danube, they must exercise extreme caution due to the potential for grounding and other incidents. The re-emergence of these ships serves as a stark reminder of the river's tumultuous history and the challenges posed by climate change, which continues to affect water levels and navigation in this vital waterway.