July the 13th, 2026 – The lowest water levels recorded since records began being kept have been noted along Drava River near Osijek. The worryingly low water levels come as a result of a prolonged lack of rainfall in the eastern Croatian city begins taking its toll.
The Drava River has reached its lowest recorded water level near the eastern Croatian city of Osijek, as prolonged drought and exceptionally dry hydrological conditions continue to affect the region. Index reports that at 13:00 on Friday, the water level at the Osijek monitoring station fell to -174 centimetres, setting a new all-time record since measurements began. The previous record of -172 centimetres had been matched just a day earlier before being surpassed.
The dramatic retreat of the river has exposed vast sandbanks along the Osijek waterfront, transforming the landscape into an unusual scene rarely witnessed except during periods of extreme drought. In several places, side channels have become exceptionally shallow, while some have almost dried out completely.
As the water continues to recede, sections of the riverbed normally hidden beneath the surface have emerged, revealing submerged debris and geological features that are typically invisible. The exposed terrain has drawn the attention of local residents and photographers eager to document the extraordinary conditions.
Hydrologists attribute the record-low water level to a prolonged lack of rainfall across eastern Croatia and unfavourable hydrological conditions affecting the wider Drava basin. Experts warn that if dry weather persists, the river could remain at historically low levels for some time, with potential consequences for river navigation, ecosystems and water management.
