Drought puts growing pressure on Dutch water system

What is causing the drought?

The current drought follows a prolonged period with little rainfall. The Rhine and Meuse are carrying exceptionally little water for this time of year. A lack of rainfall in their upstream catchments has reduced both river flows. High temperatures have increased evaporation from soils, vegetation and surface water. Together with the lack of rainfall, this has caused groundwaters to fall. Warm weather also increases the demand for water.

What are the main impacts?

The impacts vary by region. Groundwater levels are low or very low across much of the Netherlands. They are especially low in southern and south-western regions. Crops are experiencing water stress, particularly in Zeeland and on the higher sandy soils. Nature areas are drying out, while some small streams and local waterways have little water or have run dry.

Low river flows allow salt water to move further inland. This process, known as salinisation, is increasing in western and southwestern parts of the Netherlands. It places additional pressure on the available freshwater supply. Warm water and limited circulation are also contributing to blue-green algae, oxygen shortages and fish deaths. Negative swimming advice has been issued at several locations.

Low water levels are also affecting inland shipping. Depth restrictions and restrictions at locks hinder navigation and can cause delays. There are currently no reported bottlenecks in the drinking water supply. However, drinking water companies continue to advise businesses and people to use water carefully.

How are water managers responding?

Water managers are retaining water, using additional pumps and directing freshwater to areas where it is most needed. At several locks, vessels are passed through less often or in groups. This saves freshwater and helps limit the movement of salt water inland. Water managers in the Rhine–Meuse estuary are also working together to control salinisation.

Restrictions on water withdrawals are in force in parts of the country. These cover surface water and, in some areas, groundwater. Water authorities are also carrying out extra inspections of water defences.

What happens next?

The outlook depends on rainfall and temperature. Forecasts for July-August indicate that rainfall will probably remain below average. Temperatures are expected to remain above average. The precipitation deficit may therefore increase further, while groundwater levels and river flows could remain under pressure.

If the drought continues, the supply of water to some areas may decline further. Additional measures may then be needed. Current maps and drought updates can help organisations follow how conditions and measures develop across the Netherlands.