Austria announces drought relief package for farmers

The Austrian government has announced a drought relief package to support farmers facing massive crop losses following the country’s driest period since records began in 1850. Geosphere Austria reported that between January and August 2026, 72 percent of Austria’s land area experienced more dry days than in any of the previous 65 years.

The relief measures include a 240 million euro package. Key components involve increasing the state subsidy for drought and hail insurance premiums from 55 to 65 percent. Additionally, the package includes a two-month exemption from social security contributions for affected farmers.

The agreement was reached following intense negotiations within the coalition government. As part of the compromise, Austria will implement a climate law aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2040. The Austrian Hail Insurance has already reported total damages of approximately one billion euros for the current year due to the ongoing drought.