The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence prefecture announced this Friday, May 6, the triggering of the drought action plan on the Calavon and Nesque watersheds. Limitations have therefore been imposed by the prefecture on twelve municipalities in the region.
These municipalities are Banon, Céreste, Montjustin, Montsalier, Opedette, Redortiers, Reillanne, Revest du Bion, Saint Croix à Lauze, Simiane la Rotonde, Vachères and Les Omergues.
APPLICATION OF THE DROUGHT ACTION PLAN
Triggering of the Alert stage on the Calavon and Nesque watersheds
and placing the rest of the department on alert.
More information at: https://t.co/gqSa4ZzsgD pic.twitter.com/B0cMYYLsmI
– Prefect of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence (@Prefet04) May 6, 2022
Indeed, since the beginning of the year, the region has been subject to a rainfall deficit of almost 60%. According to the press release from the prefecture, “the evolution of the flows of the eight deficient rivers of the department shows that the flows are lower than the normal seasonal values”.
Adding that “some municipalities in the department are already experiencing difficulties in their drinking water supply network”. Because the lack of rain in winter or spring prevents the recharge of groundwater (water reserves).
SUPPLY DIFFICULTIES
Restrictions have therefore been imposed on the twelve municipalities by the prefecture of Alpes-de-Haute-de-Provence. It is thus forbidden for the population to take and irrigate, fill their swimming pool or wash their car between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., but also to water lawns, green spaces or sports areas.
As for the other municipalities in the department, they have been placed under surveillance but are not subject to any restrictions. Nevertheless, residents are asked to reduce their water consumption for so-called “non-priority” uses.