Oost-Vlaanderen faces ongoing challenges with water scarcity as the governor expands the temporary water extraction ban. Despite recent rainfall, water levels in non-navigable waterways and public canals remain critically low. This update came through on 2025-05-26 22:08:00, highlighting the province’s urgent measures to protect its water resources.
- Governor expands temporary water extraction ban
- Rainfall insufficient to raise water levels
- Ban applies to 47 extraction zones
- Includes new zones in Gent and Laarne
- Ban remains until water levels recover
- No current drinking water restrictions needed
The ban now covers 47 extraction zones, including six new areas across Gent, Laarne, Zwalm, and Sint-Gillis-Waas. Since April 9, 41 zones were already restricted, but the persistent drought conditions mean the situation demands stricter controls. How long will these restrictions last, and what does this mean for local water users?
With water levels still far from recovery, the province continues to monitor the situation closely. This raises an important question: will further measures be necessary if the drought persists? Here’s a quick summary of the current water extraction ban in Oost-Vlaanderen.
What does this mean for residents and businesses? The ban aims to preserve water in vulnerable areas, but drinking water supplies remain stable for now. Still, vigilance is key as the province balances environmental needs with daily water use:
- Temporary ban applies to non-navigable waterways and public canals
- Six new zones added due to insufficient water level recovery
- Drinking water reserves currently unaffected, no usage limits yet
- Continuous monitoring to adjust measures as needed
As the summer approaches, will the rain return in time to lift these restrictions? Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed and conserve water wherever possible to support regional resilience during this dry period.
