European Union gas reserves on the eve of winter have fallen to the lowest level since 1390, raising concerns about shortages and a spike in prices.

Based on data from the European gas infrastructure organization, underground storage facilities of the European Union on the second of Mehr were 70% full, while the five-year average is above 80%.

Gas storage in Germany, the world’s fourth-largest reservoir, is about 57% full, sparking concerns about supply security if winter becomes excessively cold.

The EU gas storage crisis began after the Strait of Hormuz was closed in the month of Esfand last year.

A decline in liquefied gas flows from the Middle East over the past six months pushed gas prices in Asia and Europe to the highest level since the winter energy crisis of 1401, and buyers are competing over cargoes that do not require passage through this strait.