Netherlands shuts Twentekanaal to shipping as drought drives water crisis
Prolonged drought across the Netherlands has lowered water levels in the Twentekanalen, prompting Rijkswaterstaat to close the Eefde sluices and suspend all shipping from July 25 (2026) until water levels recover. The closure also bans the extraction of canal water for irrigation.
The water board Hoogheemraadschap van Delfland declared a shortage of fresh water for its 1.5 million‑strong catchment, limiting canal usage and urging residents to reduce water consumption. Municipalities such as The Hague have introduced water‑saving measures, limiting irrigation of sports fields and public green spaces.
The combined actions aim to protect water embankments, prevent soil subsidence and preserve remaining water resources while the nation confronts an unprecedented dry spell.