Map: Where have drought alerts been issued in France?

Drought warnings are on the rise across France, as the country braces itself for a potentially severe summer of water shortages.

Successive heatwaves at the beginning of the summer and a lack of rain across certain parts of the country at the start of the year have affected conditions.

Heightened alert levels are now across several regions, particularly in the north, centre, and east.

Several communes in these locations are now facing ‘crise’ alerts, the highest possible. 

An increasing number are being issued with ‘alerte’ and ‘alerte renforcé’, the second- and third-highest warnings. 

The lowest warning, ‘vigilance’, does not always come with restrictions but reminders for those in the area to be careful about water usage.

The interactive map below shows the warnings – issued through local decrees – as of June 26. Click on the search bar in the top-left to see the warning level for each area.

As a reminder warnings are issued at a communal level. Communes are free to set their own levels and restrictions. 

It means exact rules differ within areas, and the alert level may not strictly correspond to a universal set of rules. 

However as the alert level increases stricter regulations come into force, leading to a ban on all but essential water usage at the highest ‘crise’ level. 

You can find any restrictions in your commune on the official VigiEau website, which provides warnings for residents, farmers, and businesses, as well as restrictions on drinking, well, and river water. 

Our article here explains how to use the website in more detail.