Large parts of Europe are currently affected by drought. The Netherlands has now officially identified a water shortage and imposed an increased warning level. In some parts of the country, farmers are already banned from using irrigation systems on their fields. Several canals were closed to shipping.
“The Netherlands is a country of water, but water is also precious here,” said Minister of Infrastructure and Water Mark Harbers on Wednesday. A crisis team must arrange the distribution of water resources if this measure were necessary – which could be the case if the drought continues.
Water use has priority when it comes to securing important dikes, drinking water supply and generating energy. Especially the latter is not at risk. However, the population was urged to use drinking water sparingly.
Shipping and agriculture are severely affected. In shallow waters, ships would currently take less cargo on board. However, agriculture is dependent on the irrigation of fields. But here too, the use of water was restricted.
The drought in the country is becoming “increasingly visible in nature” and will increasingly affect the “social interests” of the Dutch, Harbers explains. “That’s why I urge all Dutch people to think carefully about whether they should wash their car or fill their inflatable pool completely.” Due to the low water levels, salt water sometimes flows from the sea into the rivers.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
