Water pumping ban expands in East Flanders to 85 of 141 waterways

The governor of East Flanders has significantly expanded a temporary ban on pumping water from non-navigable waterways and public ditches, affecting 85 of the province's 141 withdrawal zones starting today.

This new prohibition builds upon an existing ban implemented on May 14 in 15 withdrawal zones, which remains in effect until water levels recover. A Provincial Drought Consultation discussed current water levels and the upcoming weather forecast. In 55 withdrawal zones, critical water level thresholds have already been breached or are expected to be reached soon.

The province experienced a very dry preceding year, leaving water reserves depleted entering the winter. While sufficient rainfall between late May and mid-June temporarily stabilized water levels, a subsequent dry and exceptionally warm period from mid-June onwards has caused a general decline. Currently, there are no issues with drinking water supplies.

Certain exceptions apply to the ban. Pumps for watering livestock in pastures are permitted to continue operating. Emergency services can also extract water in critical situations if no alternatives exist. Furthermore, filling spray tanks for crop protection remains allowed under specific conditions. Individuals affected by the ban can access other watercourses within the province, though this may necessitate a permit, authorization, or notification. Those who previously held a withdrawal ticket for a now-banned zone will automatically receive an email indicating the ticket's invalidity.