France imposes water use restrictions amid worsening drought

The French government has activated water-use restrictions in two regions as a severe drought intensifies. In Ille-et-Vilaine, the prefecture announced measures effective 26 June 2026, limiting irrigation of agricultural land, watering of gardens, filling of private pools, and cleaning of vehicles and public spaces. The decree follows rapid drops in river flows, reservoir levels and soil moisture despite a wet winter and spring.

In the Gard department, Prefect Jérôme Bonet placed the upper Cèze and Gardon basins in alert and the Arre, Ardèche and lower Cèze basins in vigilance on 30 June 2026, after earlier alerts from 15 June. Restrictions ban private pool filling, home car washing and fountain operation, and limit irrigation of sports fields, domestic gardens and vegetable plots to 10 am–6 pm, except for drip‑irrigation. Authorities warn that stricter limits could follow if conditions do not improve, and violations may incur a fifth‑class fine.

Both regions are urging residents, businesses and farmers to reduce water consumption to safeguard drinking‑water supplies during the forecast period of high temperatures and little precipitation.