Drought: Enhanced alert for drinking water in Charente until October 31

Facing drought, the prefect of Charente has imposed drinking water usage restrictions across the entire department.

Generic image of drought-cracked earth in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
AI

Generic image of drought-cracked earth in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Facing a marked drought, the Prefect of Charente has placed the entire department under an enhanced alert for drinking water usage, applicable until October 31, 2026.

Low recent rainfall, high temperatures, and low water reserve levels have led authorities to strengthen restrictions. The primary objective is to preserve drinking water supply, public health, civil security, and animal watering.
Under this enhanced alert, several measures must be observed: watering vegetable gardens is prohibited from 8 AM to 8 PM, while watering lawns, flower beds, and ornamental gardens is completely forbidden. Washing vehicles at home is also prohibited, with only certain stations equipped with specific systems allowed to continue their activity under strict conditions.
Filling private swimming pools is prohibited, except for specific cases outlined in the decree. Cleaning facades, roofs, sidewalks, and other waterproofed surfaces is forbidden, unless for sanitary or safety imperatives. Ornamental fountains must be turned off, unless they operate on a closed circuit.
Everyone is invited to adopt good practices to limit daily water consumption: reduce shower times, avoid non-essential uses, repair leaks, and favor water-saving equipment. Everyone's mobilization is deemed essential to preserve this precious resource.
Based on information from the official source: Mairie de Saint-Yrieix-sur-Charente (08/10/2026)