Netherlands water shortage escalates, new measures announced

The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management officially declared a water shortage, scaling the situation to phase 2 after advice from the National Coordination Committee for Water Distribution. Authorities are preparing extra measures such as opening the Lek weir near Hagestein to channel more fresh water westward, deploying additional pumps, and restricting water extraction from ditches and surface sources in affected regions. The ministry assured that drinking‑water supplies will remain sufficient but urged the public to use water responsibly.

The agricultural lobby LTO expressed concern that the shortage will intensify pressure on farmers and horticulturists, noting that water will be allocated first to protect dikes and drinking water before agricultural use. Meanwhile, the Hoogheemraadschap De Stichtse Rijnlanden water board reported ongoing dry conditions, lower river levels and deteriorating water quality with reduced oxygen, risk of botulism and blue‑green algae, and has installed temporary pumps, banned surface‑water withdrawal in parts of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, and limited water retention at certain sluices. The board also issued health advisories to avoid contact with contaminated water.