Heat and drought: water alert at ‘yellow’ and risk of forest fires

On the evening of 26 June, the ZWO’s water traffic light turned red . ZWO, the town of Rodgau and the district are calling on residents to use drinking water extremely sparingly – latest information on this topic

Effects of the heat and drought

The extreme heatwave, lack of rainfall and falling groundwater levels are placing an increasing strain on Rodgau. As the town obtains its drinking water exclusively from limited local resources, the situation regarding the well systems remains very tense despite the rainfall in May. The Offenbach City and District Water Supply Association (ZWO) has therefore set the water alert level to yellow.

The City’s appeal to save water

The town of Rodgau and the municipal utilities are issuing an urgent appeal to all residents to strictly conserve drinking water with immediate effect. Watering gardens must be limited to a maximum of two sessions per week. The watering of lawns, as well as the private washing of vehicles and the hosing down of patios, walls and roofs, must be stopped completely. Filling private swimming pools, cisterns and water storage tanks with drinking water is also prohibited. Even small changes in the home, such as turning off the tap whilst washing, make a direct difference.

Risk of forest fires

At the same time, the drought is posing a serious threat to the natural environment, which is why the state of Hesse has declared a Level 4 alert for its forests. Fallen leaves and forest floors are extremely dry, resulting in a high risk of forest fires. The town of Rodgau is appealing to all residents to strictly observe the statutory smoking ban (1 March to 31 October) in the forest and within 100 metres of the forest edge. Open fires, torches and barbecues at forest leisure facilities – even in areas where they are normally permitted – are prohibited. Visitors to the forest must not leave behind any bottles or broken glass, and must never throw cigarette ends out of their cars. To keep emergency access routes clear, forest access roads must not be blocked. Cars must only be parked in designated car parks and under no circumstances on dry ground cover, as hot catalytic converters can set it alight. If a fire is spotted, dial 112 immediately.

Health tips and advice

In addition, the city council is warning of the health risks posed by the heat and is asking people to look out for one another. To prevent circulatory problems, fluid intake should be increased to two to three litres a day (water, sparkling fruit drinks, unsweetened tea); alcohol and sugary drinks should be avoided. Shopping and exercise should be done during the cooler hours of the morning or evening. Homes should only be aired at night and in the morning, and kept in the shade during the day. In cases of extreme indoor heat exceeding 35 degrees, fans are no longer effective; the Offenbach district has provided an overview of air-conditioned public buildings at www.kreis-offenbach.de/kühle-orte. Outdoors, light-coloured clothing, head coverings and sun protection are essential. Anyone taking medication such as blood pressure medication should have its heat tolerance checked at their GP’s surgery and ensure it is stored in a cool place. Please pay particular attention to vulnerable members of the community, such as people aged 65 and over, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, babies and young children, and actively support them.