Italy: Water rationing measures planned in Rome in September

Event

Roman officials announced plans to implement water rationing measures throughout the city beginning in September 2017, as a severe drought continues to affect central Italy. From Monday, September 4, water pressure will be cut during the night on peak days in​ September. Officials warned that some buildings could lose water supply altogether.

Italian water company Acea said they have plugged 1300 water leaks since May 2017, and have checked 90 percent of the city's pipes. Further water rationing measures are possible in the coming months if drought conditions do not improve.

Context

Despite ongoing water shortages in Rome throughout July 2017 and warnings of potential water rationing measures, the city's officials were able to arrive at an agreement with Acea to avoid impact to the water supply, allowing  the local water authority to continue drawing from nearby Lake Bracciano while progressively reducing quantities until fully phased out by Friday, September 1. However, a lack of improvement in drought conditions in the past month has forced officials to finally implement the upcoming rationing program.

Italy is currently experiencing a severe drought and rainfall in Rome is down 70 percent compared to the previous three years. The agricultural sector is said to have been severely impacted, with some 60 percent of farmland under threat. The drought has reportedly cost the industry some USD 2 billion. ​

Advice

Individuals present in Rome are advised to prepare for water shortages (stock up on bottled water), to follow any water conservation instructions issued by local authorities, and to keep abreast of the situation.