A widespread heatwave is currently affecting large parts of Europe, causing significant disruptions to rail and terminal operations in Germany and the Port of Rotterdam. Fires along embankments and technical issues related to extreme temperatures have led to delays, rerouting, and temporary closures, particularly impacting logistics and freight transport.

On July 2, global freight forwarder Kuehne+Nagel issued an update outlining the operational impact of the ongoing high temperatures.

According to German rail operator Deutsche Bahn, the regions of Hamburg, Lower Saxony, and Saxony-Anhalt have been particularly affected. Fires in these areas have resulted in multiple rail service disruptions, with some routes experiencing delays, diversions, or full closures.

In Rotterdam, port operator ECT Delta Terminal reported several technical interruptions due to the heat, which limited landside operations. As a result, the terminal temporarily suspended truck access and advised drivers to postpone their visits. Later, restricted access was granted to a limited number of trucks per hour at the nearby ECT Euromax Terminal.

Similarly, operations at Rotterdam’s RWG Terminal were temporarily halted due to technical malfunctions caused by elevated temperatures.

Reports indicate that due to the terminal shutdowns, trucking companies have encountered difficulties obtaining container pick-up authorizations. The disruptions have been attributed to heat-related impacts on cranes in container storage areas.

Forecasts suggest that high temperatures across Northern Europe may lead to similar operational challenges and additional restrictions in the coming days.