London records first rain-free month in 150 years

London's Kew Gardens, home to one of the world's longest-running weather stations, has recorded its first calendar month without measurable rainfall since observations began in 1871, underscoring the severity of the drought affecting much of Europe.

The unprecedented dry spell comes as large parts of the continent grapple with worsening water shortages that are disrupting energy production, transport and agriculture, Semafor reports.

Record-low water levels in the Danube River have forced Hungary to shut down its only nuclear power plant, while the government is preparing for possible blackouts and electricity rationing amid mounting economic challenges. Romania's Cernavodă nuclear power plant, also located on the Danube, has already suspended operations, and critically low water levels on the Rhine have disrupted freight transport in Germany.

Though London’s first-ever rain-free month is not confirmed, there is no end in sight: forecasters said there was “little sign of the widespread, sustained rainfall that would be needed” to end the UK’s drought.

By Vafa Guliyeva