Severe drought leaves Březová reservoir empty, revealing historic bridge remains

Constructed between 1931 and 1935 to shield Karlovy Vary from catastrophic flooding, the Březová dam is now almost empty because the Teplá river, its primary water source, is severely depleted by drought. The exposed remains of a historic bridge have become a curiosity, drawing dozens of people who walk across the dry riverbed. Long-time dam worker Aleš Gartner described one outlet conditions as extreme, noting that similar low levels have only been hinted at in previous years.

Povodí Ohře spokesperson Dana Zikešová explained that the outflow has been limited to 160 litres per second, with inflow at 150 litres, and that the dam can further reduce discharge if needed. She also recalled past intentional drawdowns in 1999 and 2003, which were for maintenance, not water scarcity. The situation highlights the vulnerability of right-bank tributaries like the Teplá to climate-induced dryness.