On Tuesday May 9, 2023, the prefect of Pyrénées-Orientales took the decision to place certain areas of this department in “drought crisis”, as reported by Franceinfo. From Wednesday May 10 until June 13 inclusive, several basins in the region are therefore placed on maximum alert. On the same date, new restrictions were put in place. Discover in our slideshow below the departments where they are effective.

On May 5, 2023, Christophe Béchu, Minister for Ecological Transition, announced the ban on the sale of above-ground swimming pools in the Pyrénées-Orientales. This decision comes after the alarming observation of the state of groundwater in France. InfoSécheresse, site responsible for raising the level of drinking water in France, alert on the catastrophic situation in 20 departments. Indeed, the latter still have “a very low level” on May 11, 2023. Measures to restrict the use of water were then put in place in these regions, and the water police could soon come monitor compliance with these.

Among the restrictive measures, we find all the equipment intended for individual pleasure. The prefect, Rodrigue Furcy, then indicated to BFMTV, that there will be “a small educational phase” with the inhabitants before the establishment of controls by the local authorities of “all items” such as swimming pools or watering .

“The control phases will be carried out by the security forces and the water police in conjunction with the public prosecutor with possible 5th class fines for offenders”, adds the prefecture. In the event of non-compliance with the instructions, the water police can then draw up a report. Fines can reach 1,500 euros for individuals and 7,500 euros for companies. To avoid having a fine, consult our slideshow below to find out which departments are affected by these prefectural decrees.