News item | 31-08-2022 | 16:20
The effects of the drought are still being felt. The water level in the rivers is low, the groundwater level is falling, the water quality is deteriorating and nature is drying up. Precipitation is expected in the catchment areas of the Rhine and Meuse and in the Netherlands in the coming weeks. This provides some relief, but is by no means a structural solution to all problems. This requires a lot of long-term precipitation.
Last week, the Water Shortage Management Team (MTW) decided to allow extra water to pass through at the Driel-Amerongen weir in order to increase the water level of the Lower Rhine. This has been successful, making optimal use of the extra water that entered our country via Germany. Last week, this led to some relief for shipping, the prevention of salinization and water supply options.
Regional measures
In areas where no water can be supplied, the effects of the drought are increasing further. This is especially true for nature and agriculture. Streams run dry and water quality deteriorates. In many regions, spraying bans continue to apply and 3 water boards have now introduced bans on abstraction of groundwater to limit damage to nature.
The water boards and Rijkswaterstaat have taken many measures in recent weeks for water supply, water retention and damage prevention. For example, the Aa en Maas Water Board in Cuijk irrigates the dikes locally to prevent drought damage.
The organization of the water distribution is a collaboration between Rijkswaterstaat, water boards, drinking water companies, provinces and the ministries involved (LNV, EZK and IenW).
View the latest drought monitor.