Czech Republic Logs Third-Driest Year Since 1961, Exposing AI Infrastructure Water Risk

The Czech Republic recorded just 395 mm of precipitation from January to September 2026 — 73% of the 1991–2020 average and the third-lowest since 1961, per ČHMÚ. The Vltava in Prague fell below the drought threshold, 48 river profiles dropped below drought levels, and hydroelectric output fell by as much as 50%. The drought coincided with government approval of a CZK 100 billion (~$4.76 billion) AI Gigafactory bid.

• 395 mm of precipitation in nine months of 2026 — 73% of normal, third-lowest since 1961
• 48 river profiles below drought levels; Prague's Vltava below threshold since October 2
• Hydroelectric output down as much as 50%; farmers received CZK 3.8 billion (~$181 million)
• Drought coincided with a CZK 100 billion (~$4.76 billion) AI Gigafactory bid