Monday, August 12, 2024 Spain Introduces New Swimming Pool Restrictions Amid Severe Drought As Spain battles one of its worst droughts in recent history, new restrictions on filling swimming pools have been introduced in several regions. The move comes as some areas of the country have gone more than eight months without rain, leading to dramatically reduced reservoir levels. The region of Castellon, in particular, has implemented the ban, as water levels have dropped by a quarter.
In addition to the ban on filling swimming pools, residents and visitors are being asked to refrain from washing vehicles and watering gardens. Local councils have also stopped watering public parks and gardens, and the municipal swimming pools remain empty. Vicente Tejedo, the newly appointed Regional Secretary for Agriculture, highlighted the severity of the situation: “We are suffering from a more than evident problem of lack of rain.
We have been warning for months about the drought and all the consequences it is having.” Tejedo emphasized that livestock is suffering as well, with a need for feed due to the lack of pasture and tanks of water as natural ponds dry up. The restrictions, which were enforced last Friday, are expected to remain in place at least until Tuesday.
As temperatures in Spain are forecast to soar to 44°C in some areas this summer, there are growing concerns for the health and safety of tourists who may not be accustomed to such extreme heat. Officials are urging everyon.