Water emergency

A water emergency exists when the supply of water or its quality is no longer guaranteed for people, the natural environment and the economy.

Causes

A water emergency may be caused by periods of extreme drought, prolonged heat, excessive consumption or contamination. As a general rule:

Climate change
: A lack of rainfall and increased evaporation are leading to falling groundwater levels and empty reservoirs
Conflicts over water use
Intensive agriculture, industry and rapid population growth are increasing the pressure on water resources
Contamination & Faults
Pollutants, pesticides or pharmaceutical residues in groundwater reduce the available drinking water reserves. Faults in the water supply system can prevent water from being supplied

The following measures can be taken to ensure basic services:

Appeals to the public
Residents are asked to save water at home (e.g. take showers instead of baths, brush their teeth for shorter periods)
Water use bans
Watering gardens, washing cars or filling private swimming pools may be temporarily prohibited or strictly rationed
: Non-essential water usage, such as public fountains or water features, is being reduced or stopped

Always use water sparingly
Where possible, include cisterns or other containers for storing water
Keep a supply of drinking water at home – ideally enough for 10 days, which is equivalent to 20 litres per person