Zlín Region faces drought affecting small watercourses

The Zlín Region in the Czech Republic is experiencing drought conditions that are primarily affecting smaller watercourses. While drinking water supplies remain stable and major surface and groundwater sources have not yet reached critical limits, local authorities have begun implementing restrictions.

In several municipalities, including Kladeruby, Zubří, Bystřice pod Hostýnem, and Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, authorities have issued indefinite bans on extracting surface water from watercourses. In Kateřinice, restrictions on public water supply are in place until September 30, 2026.

Renata Prchlíková, the regional councilor for the environment and agriculture, stated that the region is monitoring the situation through its established Drought Plan. This plan includes measures to ensure water for basic societal needs and to mitigate impacts on the environment and economy. If conditions worsen, a regional Drought Commission may be convened to prioritize drinking water and strategic services over agricultural and other uses.

To mitigate long-term effects, the regional government has invested heavily in water retention projects, including nearly 50 million CZK for forest water retention since 2017 and significant funding for water management infrastructure in smaller municipalities.