Drought in Germany Impacting Chemical Manufacturers

Posted on December 11, 2018 - Industry News

Rhine Valley Rhine River

One of the longest dry spells on record in Germany is causing unexpected problems for chemical manufactures. The dry weather has led to record-low water levels in the Rhine river, a major route of barge traffic. Because of the low water levels, as shallow as 10 inches in many places, most cargo on the river has stopped and must instead be transported by road or rail. It is reported that 80% of ship traffic from Germany travels on the Rhine river, and the effects have been crippling on commerce. Raw materials needed for plasticizer production have been impacted, causing at least two major manufactures to declare force majeure. In addition, water drawn from the Rhine river for cooling purposes during manufacturing has been limited by authorities further hampering production. Rain is desperately needed, and unfortunately, it will take time for the river to regain water levels so production problems can be expected into 2019.