Decin, Czech Republic - Due to this summer's drought in Central Europe, boulders known as "hunger stones" are reappearing in the Elbe River.
The low water levels in the river that begins in the Czech Republic then crosses Germany into the North Sea has exposed stones on the river bed whose appearances in history used to warn people that hard times were coming.
One of the so-called "hunger stones" exposed by the low level of water in the Elbe river is seen in Decin, Czech Republic. Picture: Petr David Josek/AP
Over a dozen of the hunger stones, chosen to record low water levels, can now be seen in and near the northern Czech town of Decin near the German border.
One of the so-called "hunger stones" exposed by the low level of water in the Elbe river in Decin. The "hunger stones" were chosen in the past to record low water levels. Picture: Petr David Josek/AP
The oldest water-mark visible dates to 1616. That stone, which is considered the oldest hydrological landmark in Central Europe, bears a chiselled inscription in German that says: "When you see me, cry."