Alsace drought triggers strict water restrictions and river transport limits

Severe drought conditions in the Grand Est region of France have led authorities to implement strict water usage restrictions. In Haut-Rhin, a ‘crisis’ level has been triggered for several sectors between Ribeauvillé and Soultz, resulting in immediate bans on various water uses. In Bas-Rhin, prefectural decrees are increasing surveillance of waterways.

The hydrological crisis is significantly impacting river transport. On the Rhine, commercial vessels are currently operating at only 20% of their usual capacity to prevent grounding, a constraint that increases logistical costs due to the need for more frequent rotations. Voies navigables de France (VNF) has expressed concern, noting that while no canal closures have been enacted yet, technical teams are considering the option if reservoir levels continue to drop.

In the commune of Oberbronn and surrounding areas, reinforced alert levels have introduced specific restrictions for residents. These include bans on watering vegetable gardens between 8:00 and 20:00, limitations on using watering cans or drip irrigation outside those hours, and prohibitions on washing vehicles and cleaning impervious surfaces like roofs or sidewalks, except under specific professional exceptions. Restrictions also apply to the filling and emptying of swimming pools.