Vienna's high water consumption returns to normal levels

Water consumption in Vienna has begun to recede from a recent record high, though it still exceeds the daily average by approximately 27 percent. The city's water authority, Magistratsabteilung 31 (MA 31), reports that the situation is moving towards stabilization following emergency measures implemented earlier in the week.

Vienna experienced an unusually high demand for water, reaching up to 580,000 cubic meters per day at the start of the week. This figure represented a 45 percent increase over the average daily consumption. In response, the city restricted the irrigation of green spaces and temporarily halted street cleaning operations that require significant water usage.

These conservation measures are expected to continue. MA 31 is urging the public, businesses, and institutions to remain vigilant in saving water. Specific recommendations include refraining from filling swimming pools and washing vehicles, and being mindful of household appliance usage.

Despite the high demand, sufficient water continues to flow into Vienna from the Alps. Recent precipitation in the source areas was localized and limited, preventing the contamination of water supplies. The city assures that even if some sources become temporarily unusable due to severe weather, available resources can compensate. Vienna's long-term strategy, 'Wiener Wasser 2050,' aims to further increase supply security through measures like constructing a new water treatment plant, expanding reservoirs, and upgrading the pipe network.