Status: 07/03/2022 2:17 p.m
Italy is suffering from the worst drought in decades. That is why drinking water can no longer be used for gardens and swimming pools in Verona and Pisa. A drought emergency is imminent.
Because of the escalating drought crisis in Italy, Verona has severely restricted the use of drinking water. Until August 31, this may only be used during the day for eating, personal hygiene and cleaning in the household.
From 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. it is forbidden to water gardens and sports fields, wash cars and fill swimming pools, as the new mayor Damiano Tommasi announced in an ordinance.
Fine of up to 500 euros
Failure to do so can result in penalties of up to 500 euros. At night – from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. – activities are permitted, but the city asks its citizens to refrain from doing so. Mayor Michele Conti also signed a similar order in Pisa. In the city in Tuscany, which is popular with tourists, drinking water may only be used in the household from July 11th.
Lowest water level in 70 years
Italy is suffering from the worst drought in decades. Many rivers, such as the Po, are at their lowest levels in more than 70 years. In a number of communities, especially in the north, people have had to save water for weeks, and tankers are being used in many places to fill up the water reservoir. Cities like Milan have already turned off the water in large wells.
A state of emergency is imminent
Half a dozen regions have already asked the government in Rome to declare a state of emergency to allow for more aid and civil defense operations. Prime Minister Mario Draghi announced that appropriate steps could follow from Monday.