Slovenia faces worsening drought as river levels drop, water use restricted

Slovenia is grappling with a deepening hydrological drought, characterized by significantly reduced river flows and the drying up of some smaller springs. The situation has prompted environmental inspectors to increase their scrutiny of water withdrawals from watercourses by entities holding water permits.

Inspectors are also giving priority to all reports concerning illegal water extraction. The country is currently in a period of hydrological drought that is reportedly intensifying. Authorities are facing the question of what actions have been taken regarding the Soča River, which, according to reports, has nearly dried up at its confluence with the Vipava River.

The Soča River's flow in the Goriška region has been steadily decreasing due to prolonged drought and a lack of rainfall for nearly two months. Compounding the issue, a larger portion of the river's water is being diverted through the Agro Gradiscano canal near Ločnik. This diversion is crucial for agricultural production, supporting fields and vineyards in the area between Gorizia, Gradišče, and Krmin.

The reduced water levels mean that there is insufficient water not only for irrigation but also for navigation and other less essential uses. The article highlights the critical state of water resources and the challenges posed by the ongoing drought conditions across the region.