Map: Where water restrictions continue in France

Water restrictions remain in place in many parts of France following a summer of intense heat and exceptionally low rainfall. 

As of October 13, 820 zones in 94 departments faced some sort of water restriction. These restrictions range from requests to save water to emergency measures banning non-essential use. 

Of these departments, 67 departments have at least one zone at crise, the highest level of water restrictions.

At this level, non-priority water withdrawals are suspended, including for agricultural use. Exceptions remain for essential needs, including health, civil protection, drinking water supplies and sanitation.

A further 18 departments have areas at alerte renforcée, or enhanced alert. Restrictions at this level can include tighter limits on watering gardens, green spaces and golf courses, filling swimming pools and washing cars.

Agricultural water withdrawals must generally be reduced by at least 50%, or be subject to time restrictions or a system of allocated watering periods.

Four departments have areas at alerte, the standard alert level. Measures can also include restrictions on watering, filling pools and washing vehicles at certain times.

The remaining five departments have areas at vigilance, the lowest level. No specific restrictions are imposed at this stage, but households and businesses are encouraged to reduce their water consumption.

Drought continues after summer

The restrictions come as groundwater levels remain under pressure, with scientists warning that sustained autumn rainfall is needed to replenish reserves after months of dry weather.

A report published on October 8 by the Bureau de Recherches Géologiques et Minières (BRGM), France’s national geological survey, found that 66% of monitored groundwater points were below their usual levels for the time of year on September 30. 

“Groundwater levels are falling at 81% of sites. The overall situation is poor and varied,” the BRGM said.

September rainfall was 70% below the seasonal average.

The BRGM also said that autumn rainfall may not be sufficient as heavy downpours may cause flooding without allowing enough water to actually enter the soil and replenish underground reserves.

The continuing restrictions also follow reports of drinking-water shortages in several parts of France. In the final weeks of September, 83,000 people had been left without tap water.

Some affected communes have relied on tanker deliveries or bottled water as local sources ran low.

Residents can check the rules applying to their own town or commune through the government’s VigiEau website. The map provides information on current restriction levels and the measures that apply to different uses of water.