Rhine River Water Levels in Germany Rising, Shipping Conditions Improve
Recent Changes in Rhine River Shipping Conditions
Impact of Rainfall on Water Levels
HAMBURG, May 11 (Reuters) - Rain has increased water levels on the river Rhine in Germany enabling cargo vessels to sail with more freight after shallow water hindered shipping last week, although full loads are largely still not possible, traders said on Monday.
Consequences of Previous Dry Weather
Dry weather in April meant the river became too shallow for vessels to sail fully loaded, with some sailing half full. Shallow water means vessel operators impose surcharges on freight rates to compensate for vessels not sailing fully loaded, increasing costs for cargo owners. It also means loads must be spread among several vessels sailing part loaded, also increasing costs.
Current Shipping Capacities
Rain in the last week means water levels have risen and vessels are generally able to sail about 70% to 90% full against only half full early last week, traders said.
Regional Differences in River Sections
Operations are close to normal in some northern river sections including around Duisburg and Cologne but at the chokepoint of Kaub vessels can only sail about 70% full.
Forecast for Water Levels at Kaub
But water at Kaub could return to levels allowing full loads later this week as recent rain drains into the river, they said.
Importance of the Rhine for German Industry
The Rhine is an important shipping route for commodities such as grains, minerals, ores, chemicals, coal and oil products, including heating oil.
Historical Context: 2022 Drought
German companies faced supply bottlenecks and production problems in summer 2022 after a drought led to unusually low water levels on the river.
(Reporting by Michael Hogan in Hamburg, Editing by Louise Heavens)
