Across France, the drought continues to spread. Measures limiting or banning irrigation are being implemented in many departments.
The heat wave is subsiding, and temperatures are slowly dropping. The drought, however, continues to worsen. According to the government website Vigi’eau, as of July 16, 2026, areas in 46 departments are considered to be “in crisis” (shown in dark red on the map below). Water withdrawals for agricultural use are prohibited there, either completely or partially. Agricultural sprinkler irrigation is also prohibited. On Thursday, July 9, 40 departments were subject to this alert level.
The “enhanced alert” level has been triggered in 25 departments, up from 20 the previous week. In these areas, irrigation using localized irrigation systems is permitted, and sprinkler irrigation is limited to certain hours or, in some cases, restricted to a certain number of days per week.
Areas in 16 departments are under “alert.” Irrigation there is either prohibited on certain days of the week or reduced. Details are available in prefectural decrees.
Finally, 12 departments are under “vigilance.” Local municipalities may impose stricter restrictions if they deem it necessary.
