Drought conditions trigger groundwater bans and water security concerns in Europe

Water scarcity and extreme drought conditions are prompting restrictive measures in the Netherlands and Belgium.

In the Netherlands, the Vallei en Veluwe water board has implemented a temporary ban on groundwater extraction near Apeldoorn, effective this Saturday. Despite recent rainfall, authorities state that water levels have not recovered due to high temperatures and low precipitation. The ban specifically targets “wet natural areas” such as marshes, reed fields, and peatlands to prevent irreversible damage to ecosystems. Officials noted that the measure is intended to prevent the situation from worsening and to facilitate faster recovery once rainfall increases. Enforcement may include the use of drones.

In Belgium, hydrologist Patrick Willems of KU Leuven has expressed growing concern regarding the exceptional drought of 2026. He noted that while nature can often withstand dry summers, the frequency of extreme drought has increased significantly over the last decade. The prolonged dry period has placed pressure on the drinking water supply and raised concerns regarding critical water levels in areas such as the Albert Canal.