Triggering of the drought alert in the Alpes-Maritimes
15 March 2023
Due to weather conditions, the washing of vehicles and ships is again prohibited throughout the Alpes-Maritimes department. This measure is applicable to all ports on the Riviera.
Significant pressure on water resources is currently present throughout the Alpes-Maritimes.
After a year 2022 marked by an exceptional drought, the rainfall in the Alpes-Maritimes department during the recharge period between September 2022 and March 2023 is once again in deficit, of the order of -30% to -55% compared to compared to the average. The month of February 2023 is particularly loss-making (-87%).
As a result, the flows of the rivers and groundwater are abnormally low for the season and the snowpack is around 60% below the average for the department.
The Alpes-Maritimes department is therefore placed on the “drought” alert stage and the use of water is regulated in the territory.
The prefectural decree* published on March 13 notably prohibits the washing of vehicles, watercraft (motorized or not) and ships. Green spaces are also concerned: no watering in 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
These water restriction measures, recalled in the decree available on www.alpes-maritimes.gouv.fr apply to all uses, with the exception of priority uses related to health, safety and civil security.
In the event of non-compliance with the prescriptions, users are liable to a 5th class fine, i.e. €1,500 for a natural person.