Due to the ongoing drought, France is taking emergency measures to combat another dry summer. It has never been as dry in the country during winter since measurements were taken in 1959. Restrictions  are already in place in a number of regions, including a ban on washing vehicles.

Such restrictions have never been in place before in winter months, reports Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws. It has not rained significantly in France for more than 30 days. According to the government, this is a “major threat to water resources next summer”. The drought during the winter is causing dehydrated soil, says weather institute Météo France, which further weakens it. This has potentially serious consequences.

Careful with water

French President Macron has called for saving water throughout the country. In addition, the government has asked prefects to take extraordinary measures, with temporary restrictions or the prohibition of non-essential use of water for families and businesses.

Restrictions are already in place in the departments of Pyrénées-Orientales, Var, Isère, Ain, Bouches-du-Rhône and Savoie, including bans on watering gardens and sports fields, filling pools and washing vehicles.

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