Despite the return of the rain, France is experiencing an unprecedented winter drought… and restrictions on water use, unheard of!

However, it is in winter (September to March) that they recharge. Faced with this critical situation, restrictions on the use of water are decided on a case-by-case basis by the prefectures of the departments.

7 departments are affected today, despite the return of the rain. An unprecedented situation in winter. So why ? We tell you everything...

95% of French people have heard of the drought decrees limiting water use and nearly three-quarters (72%) say they are well informed about their issues*

But what are we talking about?

… exceptional measures taken by the prefects who call on residents and professionals to consume water responsibly: by limiting or stopping car washing, filling swimming pools, watering lawns, green spaces, sports fields, golf courses, uses for agricultural purposes, valve operations, nautical activities.

Measures that follow the call of the government. As with energy, a water sobriety plan should be announced to avoid and anticipate possible crisis situations, linked to a lack of water, in the spring and summer of 2023.

Unanimity (96%) of French people affected by these decrees say they have respected them and more than half (52%) believe that solutions to combat drought must be taken locally*

How does it work ?

Water restriction measures are defined, at local level by the prefectures, according to the thresholds reached by the groundwater. Water restriction orders are then issued, for a determined period and scope, for individuals and professionals, according to 4 levels of severity: vigilance, alert, heightened alert, crisis (see diagram below).

60% of French people believe that we do not talk enough about water shortages*

*: Ipsos survey for the Water Information Center